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• Facet Disease

What is Facet Disease?

Have you ever asked yourself, “What is facet disease?” Facet disease, also called facet arthritis or facet joint syndrome, is degeneration or arthritis affecting the facet joints. Facet joints are the connections between the spine’s vertebrae, and these connections allow the spine to enjoy a smooth range of motion. Facet joints also prevent certain motions that would hurt the important nerve tissue housed inside the spine.

In a healthy facet joint, cartilage and sacs of lubricating synovial fluid line the joint so that you can move easily and painlessly. As you age, however, the cartilage may begin to wear away or the synovial lining may become inflamed, making back and neck movements can very painful. Any degenerative changes in a facet joint might be colloquially termed facet disease.

Facet Disease Locations & Symptoms

Facet disease can occur in the cervical (upper) region of the spine, the thoracic (middle) region, or the lumbar (lower) region. A variety of factors can contribute to this condition, including age, gender, obesity, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle. Overall, though, the aging process is the most common cause of facet joint degenerative disease. Symptoms can include the following:

• Throbbing
• Tenderness
• Aching
• Locking of the joints
• Curvature of the spine
• Crepitus, a crunching sensation of bone rubbing against bone

Treatment Options

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As with any degenerative spine disease, a personalized schedule of non-invasive physiotherapy may be all you need to handle your symptoms. Gentle exercise can help you maintain mobility. With a doctor’s permission, try activities that won’t put too much stress on the joints, like swimming, walking, or mild yoga. Anti-inflammatory steroid injections can also help ease the pain of degenerative arthritis of the spine.

If you have tried conservative treatments and still feel that facet disease is reducing your quality of life, the experts at Laser Spine Institute (LSI) may be able to help. We have a variety of revolutionary, minimally invasive options, such as facet joint ablation or facet joint denervation. Our procedures offer a welcome alternative to the risks of traditional, open back surgeries. Contact us today for a free review or your MRI or CT scan. Let us help you rediscover a life without pain.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.