Those diagnosed with lumbar facet syndrome may experience symptoms that will affect your lower back, buttocks, thighs, and possibly your lower legs and feet. Facet syndrome, also known as spinal arthritis, is a condition in which the articular cartilage of the vertebral facet joints breaks down due to age, injury, or repetitive actions. The articular surfaces of the facet joints become inflamed and may become uncomfortable as they rub against each other. Inflammation may stimulate bone spur (osteophyte) development. The resulting symptoms can include the following:
- Lower back pain
- Tenderness
- Stiffness
- Radiating pain down the buttocks or back of the thighs
- Pain when twisting or arching the lower back
Treatments
Physicians initially suggest conservative (nonsurgical) treatments to help alleviate the symptoms associated with lumbar facet syndrome. These may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, hot and cold therapy, posture modification, and muscle relaxants. Alternative treatments such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, massage, and chiropractic adjustments may also be helpful in treating facet joint discomfort.
An Additional Treatment Option
If conservative and alternative treatments have not effectively alleviated your lumbar facet syndrome symptoms, contact Laser Spine Institute. Our minimally invasive procedures use advanced endoscopic techniques to treat a variety of spinal conditions, such as facet syndrome, bulging or herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica. Our procedures have helped tens of thousands of people. If you would like more information about our procedures and how we maintain a high patient satisfaction rate, contact Laser Spine Institute.
