Facet arthropathy is a degenerative condition that affects the facet joints in the spine, leading to pain and reduced mobility. The facet joints are small stabilizing joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae, helping with spinal flexibility and movement. Over time, these joints can deteriorate due to aging, injury or repetitive strain, causing inflammation, stiffness and discomfort.
Facet arthropathy commonly affects the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine), though it can occur anywhere along the spine. The condition can contribute to chronic pain and limit a person’s ability to perform everyday activities.
What causes facet arthropathy?
Facet arthropathy develops when the cartilage within the facet joints wears down, leading to increased friction, inflammation and pain. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Aging: Natural wear and tear over time can lead to degeneration of the facet joints.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of facet joint deterioration.
- Injury or Trauma: Accidents, falls or repeated stress on the spine can accelerate joint damage.
- Poor Posture or Spinal Alignment: Misalignment of the spine can put extra stress on facet joints.
- Obesity: Excess weight increases the load on the spine, leading to faster joint deterioration.
What are the symptoms of facet arthropathy?
The symptoms of facet arthropathy vary depending on the severity of the condition and the location of the affected joints. Common symptoms include:
- Localized pain in the lower back, mid-back or neck.
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion.
- Increased pain when twisting, bending or standing for long periods.
- Radiating pain into the shoulders, arms, buttocks or thighs (depending on the location of the affected joints).
- Muscle spasms around the spine.
How is facet arthropathy diagnosed?
At Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Interventional Pain Management our experienced providers use a combination of patient history, physical examination and imaging tests to diagnose facet arthropathy. Diagnostic methods may include:
- X-rays: To assess joint degeneration and spinal alignment.
- MRI or CT Scans: To provide detailed images of the joints and surrounding tissues.
- Facet Joint Injections: A diagnostic and therapeutic tool where an injection of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication helps determine if facet joints are the source of pain.
How is facet arthropathy treated?
Your NGPG pain management doctors will work in conjunction with your other providers to develop a customized treatment plan for you.
Treatments for facet arthropathy include:
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, corticosteroids and Tylenol.
- Anesthetic or steroid injections: Directly into the facet joint or surrounding nerves.
- Sinu-vertebral nerve ablation: Uses an electrical current to ablate nerves and reduce pain.
- Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.
While surgery is rarely required to treat facet arthropathy, in some cases, it may be necessary. Our NGPG pain management doctors can work with your orthopedic surgeon to develop a plan to alleviate your pain before and after surgery.
Choose NGPG for Facet Arthropathy Care
At NGPG Interventional Pain Management our expert team provides comprehensive care for patients suffering from facet arthropathy. From conservative therapies to advanced interventional treatments, we are dedicated to helping you manage pain and improve your quality of life. If you are experiencing chronic back or neck pain, schedule an appointment today to explore your treatment options.