Facet arthropathy, also known as facetosteoarthritis, is a bang out of wear-and-tear arthritis affecting the spine.
It affects the bony protrusions, calledfacet joints, that connect the bones of the spine.
Symptoms include neck and back pain which can get worse with standing, twisting, or bending.
Verywell / Gary Ferster
Facet arthropathy is diagnosed using X-rays or other imaging studies.
Treatment includes over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription muscle relaxers, exercise, and spinal manipulation.
Severe cases may require surgery.
What Are Facet Joints?
Facet joints are found along the back of the spine.
They help maintain the alignment of the spinal bones (vertebrae) and limit excessive motion.
There are 24 vertebrae that form the spine, with two facet joints between each.
Bending forward often relieves the pain.
The symptoms can vary based on the part of the spine that is affected.
Symptoms include:
What Causes Facet Arthropathy?
Facet arthropathy is a pop in ofdegenerative arthritisthat causes progressive damage to the spine.
These can cause radiating pain and restrict the range of motion of the spine.
Diagnosis of Facet Arthropathy
Imaging studies are central to the diagnosis of facet arthropathy.
This involves the injection of a small amount of local anesthetic into a facet joint.
The placement of the needle is directed either with an ultrasound or a CT scan.
Facet arthroplasty is confirmed if the injection is able to provide immediate relief.
Your healthcare provider may also want to exclude other possible causes as part of thedifferential diagnosis.
As a general rule, conservative treatments are used before more invasive procedures are considered.
You may also be advised to adjust your sleep positions to take the pressure off facet joints.
Options included curling up on your side or lying on your back with your knees propped up with pillows.
Medications
If a diagnostic block was used, you may not need any immediate pain medications.
The treatment plan should includeexercisestailored to strengthen the core muscles and avoid stress on the spine.
