What is Facet Joint Syndrome?

Facet Joint Syndrome is when the facet joints either weaken or become stressed and damaged. Several aspects of our everyday life cause this ailment; from everyday wear and tear to a specific injury to the back or neck and degeneration of a disc. Cartilage eventually wears away from protecting the facet joints, which can cause a variety of symptoms depending upon which region of the spine is damaged.

 

Why does my back hurt all of a sudden?

Facet joints are highly sensitive to irritation. They’re designed to slide around on each other. There is a tiny fluid-filled capsule on each facet that keeps the joints lubricated. These sacs house tiny nerve endings that let you know when they’re not happy. You’ll feel facet joint paint if they’re injured because the pain is persistent. You can either stop what you’re doing or seek help from a pain management doctor.

Facet joints are working all the time, so they do wear out. When that happens, bone spurs form, protruding into your nerves or the joints themselves become arthritic. When joints degenerate, you experience severe pain whenever you’re in motion. That’s when you need to visit Dr. Kountis, a Staten Island Spine Specialist for treatment options.

 

What are some treatment options for Facet Joint Syndrome in Staten Island?

Long-term facet joint pain treatment involves exercise, strict attention to your posture, alternating hot and cold applications and changing certain activities that lead to pain. Anti-inflammatories, manual manipulation, and the right kind of pillows help beat back the pain. A procedure that freezes the ends of the nerves is an option, and your doctor should discuss the implications of this treatment with you.

Bone fusion surgery is the last resort your pain management doctor may consider — and only after your pain consistently remains severe and debilitating.