Facet arthropathy is the scientific term of a degenerative arthritis condition that affects facet joints. These joints are found in the spine. The spinal column is made up of 24 vertebrae, and two facet joints are found between the vertebrae of each spinal division.
Degenerative arthritis is a common disease developed as people age. When the facet joints develop arthritis it can be from a number of complications:
- Wear and tear
- Previous back injury
- Torn ligaments/ fractures
- Disc problems
When these complications arise, bone spurs can develop and deteriorate the surrounding cartilage.
Southwest Spine and Pain Center is no stranger to aging patients. With our experienced medical staff and dedication to providing high quality pain management care, our patients can expect attention to detail and continual support for their pain condition.
Facet arthropathy is developed from preexisting back problems, but is also the result of our body’s natural aging process. Spinal degeneration topically occurs in our later years, and is the primary cause of the condition.
Patients with facet arthropathy will more than likely feel pain. Sleeping can promote pain and make simple tasks difficult. As the primary symptom of facet arthropathy, pain is often felt most in the legs and buttocks, and radiates down.
Facet arthropathy can be treated with conservative treatments if diagnosed early enough. Some patients find relief through a change in sleeping positions, and over nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or ibuprofen. A change in sleep positions takes immense pressure off the facet joints. Doctors typically recommend sleeping curled up on your side, or on your back with your knees up and a pillow underneath.
Some traction, strengthening exercises, water therapy, and/or spinal manipulation can be helpful as well. Talk with your doctor about recommended exercises or therapies that could be beneficial for your condition.
When conservative measures do not provide improvement, patients can seek more aggressive measures:
- Pain injections
- Sinu-vertebral nerve ablation
- Surgery- facet rhizotomy, spinal fusion
For the best results, contact Southwest Spine and Pain Center today! With our numerous convenient locations across Utah, our team can cater to your needs and improve your pain condition more conveniently.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With four locations and same day appointments, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2013
©Medical Marketing Solutions, 2013