What is "facet syndrome"?
Facet syndrome (FS) is a pattern of back pain (sometimes with buttock and leg pain) that is generated by a unique set of joints between each vertebrae, called the facet joints. Facet joints occur in pairs at each vertebral level. Facet joints
What are the causes?
An injury and/or changes associated with aging often provoke the cartilaginous surfaces of the facet joints to become inflamed or to wear away, causing pain as friction increases within the joint space. Loss of disc height due to degenerative disc disease will sometimes result in stress on the facets at the same level, and ultimately FS.
Is facet syndrome preventable?
Maintaining a regular exercise program to maintain range of motion as well as using proper body mechanics and posture in all activities of daily living is extremely important. Physical activities, including sports, should be modified to avoid positions that reproduce the pain during the activity. Such changes promote good health by minimizing further damage to the joints yet maintaining/increasing flexibility and range of motion.
What treatment options are available?
At PainCare, a frequently used treatment for facet syndrome is anesthetic and steroid injections under x-ray guidance (fluoroscopy).  Facet joint injection
If this treatment provides only short term relief, the nerve endings to these joints can be very safely destroyed (thus providing longer-term relief) using a technique called radiofrequency lesioning. Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, physical therapy, manipulation, and massage therapy, may also be useful. Above all, a lifelong program of graded back exercises is an important component of treatment to ensure maximum flexibility and function.
When should I call PainCare?
When pain affects the activities of everyday life, call PainCare or ask your primary care provider to make an appointment to see one of our pain specialists. With a specific treatment plan, a more active and functional lifestyle can often be resumed.
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