What are Facet Joint Syndrome, Treatments?

Pain comes from different issues, including injuries and health conditions. When not treated, pain can deteriorate your health and cause complications, including disabilities. The degree of pain differs depending on the cause and the affected part. Pain can be hard to treat; hence finding the cause should be the first step toward an effective treatment. Eugene facet joint syndrome specialists offer comprehensive solutions for pain for improved living. Here is everything you should know about facet joint syndrome.

What is facet joint syndrome?

Joints join two or more bones together to enhance flexibility and movement. Facet joints attach each vertebra in the spine, enhancing smooth movement and stability with the intervertebral disc.

When damage occurs to the facet joints, you might experience uncomfortable symptoms. Among the causes of the damage includes aging, or injuries, causing a back pain condition known as facet joint syndrome.

Facet joints control the back and forth movements of your back and neck. Hence, it is a common cause of spine-related pain. Facet joint syndrome commonly affects your lower back pain because the lower back carries the most weight and is very strained.

Facet joints around your neck or thoracic may also lead to pain. The symptoms are different depending on the part affected.

Lumbar facet joint syndrome

It develops in the lower back. It causes pain that travels down your buttocks or legs, worsening when you start moving. It may also lead to stiffness that causes difficulty standing up straight or maintaining a straight posture when walking.

Cervical facet joint syndrome

It causes shoulder pain, neck pain, and headaches. It also makes it hard to move your head around.

Thoracic facet joint syndrome

It affects your spinal movement around your waist, causing difficulties in looking sideways.

What causes facet joint syndrome?

Lumbar facet joint syndrome occurs due to the expected degradation of the spine. It may also result from degenerative disc disease.

Facet joint syndrome may also occur due to fluid loss in the intervertebral disc that occurs with aging. Osteoarthritis of the joints also may lead to the condition.

Cervical and thoracic facet joint syndrome usually occurs due to traumatic events such as whiplash injury.

What are the treatment options for facet joint syndrome?

Your provider at Pacific Sports and Spine first offers conservative treatments to relieve pain, including physical therapy, pain medications, and strengthening exercises.

When your pain does not improve with the conservative treatments, your provider may suggest other treatments such as:

•         Steroids injections
•         Facet joint injections
•         Radiofrequency neurotomy
•         Spinal cord stimulation
•         Medial branch blocks

Facet joint syndrome causes spine-related pain, including your low back, neck, and thoracic area. Without proper treatments, the condition may affect your daily activities, including movement. The disease may result in different causes, including aging effects and injuries. Physical therapy, including strengthening exercises, can help reduce the pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing lower back pain that travels down to the buttocks and thighs or shoulder and neck pain, you might have facet joint syndrome. Contact Pacific Sports and Spine today to schedule your appointment.