Ever felt a dull ache in the back? You feel stiff and restricted. You find that performing everyday activities such as getting up from a chair and standing straight is difficult, limited by discomfort. Depending where the pain is, you may find certain positions feel more comfortable wheras others feel worse. You may be suffering from Facet syndrome.
Facet joints are the small, paired joints located between each vertebra in your spine. These joints provide stability and guide movement, allowing you to twist, bend, and stretch without compromising the structure of your spine. Each facet joint is lined with cartilage and surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid, which reduces friction and ensures smooth movement.
Facet syndrome is an arthritic condition where posterior joints of two adjacent vertebrae are affected by inflammation. Joint irritation through injury causes localized swelling and redness, which in turn leads to pain.
Because of the arthritic nature, they can be degnerative in nature meaning that it is irreversible. But the good news is that surgery is rarely needed for Facet syndrome.
What Causes Facet syndrome?
Facet syndrome typically develops due to wear and tear or degenerative changes in the spine. Some of the most common causes include:
Osteoarthritis: With age, the cartilage in the facet joints can wear down, causing pain and stiffness.
Spinal Injuries: Trauma, such as whiplash or falls, can damage the facet joints.
Poor Posture: Over time, poor posture places uneven pressure on the spine, leading to facet joint irritation.
Repetitive Movements: Certain jobs or activities involving repetitive twisting, lifting, or bending can strain the facet joints.
Degenerative Disc Disease: When spinal discs deteriorate, the increased pressure on the facet joints can lead to degeneration.
Symptoms of Facet syndrome
Facet syndrome can present in different ways, depending on which part of the spine is affected:
Cervical Spine (Neck):
Neck pain that may radiate to the shoulders or head.
Difficulty turning the head.
Thoracic Spine (Mid-Back):
Pain localized to the mid-back area, often mistaken for muscle strain.
Lumbar Spine (Lower Back):
Lower back pain that may radiate to the buttocks or thighs.
Pain worsens with twisting, bending backward, or prolonged standing.
In many cases, the pain is localized and does not radiate as far as the arms or legs, distinguishing it from conditions like herniated discs.
Preventing Facet syndrome
While not all cases of Facet syndrome can be prevented, adopting a spine-friendly lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk. Here are a few tips:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight places additional strain on your spine.
Stay Active: Regular low-impact exercises, like walking, swimming, or yoga, help keep your spine flexible and strong.
Use Proper Posture: Whether sitting at a desk or standing for long periods, ensure your spine is aligned.
Lift Safely: Avoid twisting while lifting and always bend your knees, not your back.
Take Breaks: If you sit for extended periods, stand up and stretch every 30-60 minutes.
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