Facet Joint Syndrome is a condition that affects the small joints located between the vertebrae in the spine. These joints play a crucial role in providing stability and flexibility to the spine. When these joints become inflamed or degenerate, they can lead to pain and discomfort, commonly known as Facet Joint Syndrome.
Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians has spine treatment specialists who understand how this condition is diagnosed and can provide effective treatment and relief.
Symptoms of Facet Joint Syndrome
Before diving into the diagnostic process, it’s important to recognize the symptoms that might indicate the presence of Facet Joint Syndrome. Common symptoms include:
- Local Pain: Pain is typically localized to the lower back or neck, depending on the affected spine area.
- Radiating Pain: In some cases, the pain may radiate to the hips, buttocks, down the legs (lower back) or into the arms (neck).
- Stiffness: Patients often report increased stiffness in the spine, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
- Pain with Movement: The pain may worsen with certain movements, such as bending or twisting.
- Increased Pain in the Morning: Many individuals experience more pain when they first wake up, which may improve as they move throughout the day.
Steps in Diagnosing Facet Joint Syndrome
To diagnose Facet Joint Syndrome, your Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians neck pain specialist will generally follow these steps:
- Record Your Patient History: A thorough medical history is crucial. Patients should discuss their symptoms, their onset and any history of injury, degeneration or chronic pain. It’s also important to mention any previous treatments that have been tried, including physical therapy or medication.
- Physical Examination: During the physical examination, your physician will assess the range of motion in the spine, perform specific tests to provoke pain in the facet joints and check for areas of tenderness. They may also evaluate posture and any neurological symptoms.
- Imaging Tests: While facet joint dysfunction may not always be visible on standard X-rays, we may use imaging techniques like MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography) Scans and traditional X-rays.
- Diagnostic Injections: If the diagnosis remains unclear in some cases, our specialists may recommend a facet joint injection. This involves injecting a local anesthetic into the facet joint. If the injection provides significant relief, it confirms that the facet joint is the source of the pain.
- Differential Diagnosis: It’s critical to differentiate Facet Joint Syndrome from other spinal conditions, such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. This may involve additional tests and a thorough evaluation of your unique symptoms.
Recommending Treatment Options
Once diagnosed, treatment for Facet Joint Syndrome can vary based on the severity and underlying causes of the condition. Common treatment options include:
- Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine and improve flexibility.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, nerve blocks or corticosteroid injections may be recommended.
- Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments can sometimes help improve joint function and reduce pain.
- Surgery: If conservative treatments fail, surgical options such as facet joint fusion may be considered as a last resort.
Effective Facet Syndrome Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis is essential to avoid chronic issues and to begin effective treatment, enabling individuals to regain mobility and improve their quality of life. If you suspect you may have Facet Joint Syndrome, schedule a consultation with the nearest Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians location.
Posted on behalf of