Arthritis in the spine, often referred to as Facet Disease, occurs when the cartilage that lines the facet joints (small joints between each vertebra) wears down over time, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. This is commonly due to degenerative changes associated with aging, though it can also develop from injury or overuse. Facet disease can affect the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine.

Facet joints help guide motion and provide stability in the spine, so when they become damaged, it can lead to significant discomfort and restricted movement.

• Common Causes of Facet Disease
• Muscle Strain: Overstretching or tearing the muscles and ligaments that support the spine can cause lower back pain.
• Herniated or Bulging Discs: Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When a disc bulges or herniates, it can press on surrounding nerves, causing pain.
• Arthritis (Facet Disease): Degeneration of the joints in the spine can lead to inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
• Sciatica: Compression of the sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc, can cause pain to radiate down the legs.
• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the nerves, often causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

Symptoms of Facet Disease

Facet disease symptoms vary depending on the affected area of the spine but may include:

•   Pain: Dull, achy pain localized in the neck, mid-back, or lower back.
•   Stiffness: Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to bend, twist, or move freely.
•  Muscle Spasms: Tightness in the surrounding muscles due to joint inflammation.
• Radiating Pain: Pain that travels to the shoulders, buttocks, or thighs (if nerve irritation occurs).
  
  

Diagnosis of Facet Disease
Facet disease is diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. Doctors may also use a diagnostic facet joint block, where an anesthetic is injected into the joint to determine if it's the source of the pain.

Treatment Options for Facet Disease

  Physical Therapy

  Physical therapy can strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine, improving stability and reducing pain. Exercises that focus on flexibility and posture correction are often recommended.

  Medications

  Over-the-counter NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and pain. Prescription medications, including muscle relaxants or corticosteroids, may also be used for more severe cases.

  Facet Joint Injections

  Corticosteroid injections can be administered directly into the facet joint to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief. This is often used for patients who experience flare-ups or chronic pain.

  Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

  In this procedure, radiofrequency energy is used to heat and disrupt the nerve fibers around the facet joint, preventing them from transmitting pain signals to the brain. This minimally invasive treatment can provide longer-lasting relief than injections.

  Minimally Invasive Procedures

  If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical options such as facet joint fusion or endoscopic procedures may be considered to stabilize the joint and alleviate pain.

When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical attention if:

•   The pain persists for more than a few weeks.
•   You experience limited mobility and difficulty with everyday activities.
•   Pain is accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.