What is Facet Joint Dysfunction?

Facet joint dysfunction occurs when the small joints in the spine that help with movement become inflamed or irritated. This can lead to localized back or neck pain, especially with twisting or bending. Treatment may include physical therapy, facet joint injections, and in some cases, radiofrequency ablation.

At Spine Team Texas, we use advanced imaging to pinpoint the affected joints and offer treatments that relieve inflammation and restore movement.

Facet joint dysfunction is a condition where the joints in your spine become painful due to arthritis, injury, or repeated stress due to overuse.

Common causes

  • Age-related wear and tear
  • Spinal injury
  • Excessive stress due to poor posture

Typical symptoms

  • Localized pain in the back or neck
  • Stiffness in the spine
  • Difficulty twisting or bending

Diagnostic process

  • Physical examination by a healthcare professional
  • Review of the patient’s medical history
  • Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used

Conservative treatment options

  • Physical therapy exercises
  • Pain-relieving medications
  • Muscle relaxant medications
  • Lifestyle adjustments, including exercise and maintaining good posture

Interventional treatment options

  • Facet joint injections to reduce inflammation and pain
  • Medial branch blocks to diagnose the source of pain
  • Radiofrequency ablation to disrupt pain signals

Overall objectives of treatment

  • Pain management
  • Improvement of spinal mobility
  • Enhancement of the patient’s quality of life

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