Facet Joint Dysfunction 

Facet joints are located in pairs at the back of the vertebral column and are arranged as one pair per vertebrae (back bone). They work together to help give the spine more flexibility and movement.

As with many other joints in the body the joint ends are covered in cartilage and are susceptible to degeneration or ‘wear and tear’. Lumbar spondylosis leads to a reduction in the spaces between the vertebrae as the thickness of the intervertebral discs reduces over time. These changes can lead to compression of a number of structures including the facet joints and can result in a variety of symptoms including lower back pain, stiffness and nerve irritation.

The facet joints can also be a source of pain from sudden onset or acute injuries. Trauma from a fall or a rugby tackle can damage the joints and cause pain, inflammation and muscle spasms.

Activities which involve lumbar spine extension (backwards bending of the lower back) i.e. lying with the legs out straight or perhaps standing for prolonged periods of time can worsen facet joint symptoms.

Treatment for facet joint dysfunctions focus on trying to ‘gap’ these structures to reduce the compression forces which perpetuate the symptoms. Once the symptoms have settled new strategies are taught to help to normalise movement patterns in order to prevent or minimise any recurrence of the problems.

Chronic problems which don’t respond well to physiotherapy are often dealt with by an injection of an anti-inflammatory steroid, which can be performed by a specialist. Your physiotherapist will be able to tell if you would benefit from this procedure and will be able to refer you to a suitable doctor.