Facet Joint Syndrome complicates neck and back pain

The facets are parts of the bones in the neck and back which form joints that guide motion. Facet joint pain, also known as facet syndrome is common among patients with chronic back and neck pain. In the neck, injuries to the facet joints are a common cause of pain after whiplash and is a major source of clinical importance.

Studies have demonstrated pain sensitive nerve endings in facet joints mechanically sensitive receptors which become activated with inflammation. Biomechanical studies indicate that rear end motor vehicle impacts give rise to excessive deformation of the capsules of facet joints and injury to the facets in the lower back may be produced by lifting and twisting to one side.

Facet syndrome is often associated with chronic pain. Illustrated here is the degenerative process often associated with arthritis. The front part of the bone with the disc is usually the first to begin this process of degeneration. Soon after, the decreased height of the bones places undue stress on the facet joints which start to degenerate. This causes additional inflammation and allows a smaller window for pain free motion.

There are many reasons for this degenerative process, often associated with arthritis. Many have wrongly suggested that this process is normal with aging. It is normal for degeneration to occur with aging, however, it is not associated with pain. Degenerative disc disease is painful and often disabling. Radiographic signs of significant decreases in disc space are most often associated with pain and the disease process, not normal aging! Genetics have been found to be of major importance in addition to loading history (heavy lifting or prolonged sitting). Unfortunately, with this type of condition in the lower back, typical back supports used in seats may be of no help and may even aggravate the condition.

If the back pain exercises do not help or make pain worse, then you may have facet joint problems and must avoid extension. Your problem may be degeneration and chronic or long standing back pain or it may be from an injury to the facet joints usually from lifting and twisting to one side. This recently happened to me as I was lifting a vacuum cleaner. I jammed the facet joints on the right side and immediately experienced pain along the distribution as pictured below. The pain radiating from the back, around the buttock and into the groin was quite disturbing. I have severe degeneration of the L5-S1 disc and, as a consequence, have developed degeneration of the lumbar facets. I first noticed the facets were becoming a problem when using a back support that extends the lower back region which increased the pain. The best solution I have found for seating support is the Backtivator, which also helps with reducing spasm of the Quadratus Lumborum muscle when seated for long periods, especially when driving.

With facet syndrome, you should do back exercises (1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 9). Additionally, specific chiropractic adjustments can help. The adjustments must be done on the correct side. In my case, a right L5-S1 facet compression injury, I used a Medrol Dose Pack (1 of 5 I have taken in about 9 years) to reduce inflammation, hot packs, massage and while I was backing into a parking space, I twisted to the right with my right arm around the back of the car seat and kept my torso straight at which point a loud release of the joints were noted and the pain subsided for the first time. I do not suggest you try this, a chiropractor would test the joints and perform a right side posture lumbar adjustment to the same effect. Painful, but effective. A concentrated massage along the pain referral areas and application of herbal liniment areas finally got rid of the pain - for now.

Another area of concern is safe lifting and the discussion regarding While lifting, you must retain the normal curve or arch in the back under back posture. When you have damage to the facet joints resulting in a pain syndrome, you should not arch your lower back when lifting. It is also important to use a stool when standing for long periods as when using an ironing board and to flatten the lower back when raising your arms above your head. Pain in the lower back that is relieved by sitting is a sign of lumbar facet syndrome.

Facet joint syndrome in the neck follows a similar course. Injuries to the facets are common in whiplash accidents and for those whose job demand looking up or holding the head and neck in extension. Think of painting a ceiling, so Painters, Electricians, Carpenters, Sheet Rockers, Ceiling Installers, HVAC Workers, Automotive, Aircraft, All Overhead Assembly Personnel Electricians, Carpenters, Sheet Rockers, Ceiling Installers, HVAC Workers, even Recreational activities like: Rock Climbers (Belayers Neck), Birdwatchers (Warblers Neck), Sailors (Trimmers Neck) and Astronomers can develop irritation of the facet joints over time. I have found that use of the neckaid neck support can have a significant impact to help with the development of facet syndrome of the neck.

If all else fails, the medical community has facet joint injections and nerve disruption techniques that you may wish to consult with. A surgical procedure called radiofrequency rhizotomy might be necessary to relieve pain and improve mobility. Radiofrequency rhizotomy, also called radiofrequency neurotomy, is the surgical "de-nerving" of the facet joint.