Recognizing the Symptoms of Facet Joint Pain
Facet joint pain can present with varied symptoms, often affecting movement and posture. Common signs include:
- Pain when transitioning from sitting to standing
- Discomfort while standing for long periods
- Increased pain when lying on your stomach
- Pain worsens with arching or twisting the neck or lower back
- Pain relieved by sitting and bending the neck or back forward
- Pain that does not radiate into the arms or legs
Facet joint injuries can also cause referred pain:
- Cervical (neck) facet joint pain may radiate toward the back of the head, ears, or shoulders.
- Lumbar (low back) facet joint pain may radiate toward the buttocks, hips, or thighs.
Pain is often worse with movement and may intensify after periods of inactivity or sleep.
If you have back pain, platelet rich plasma therapy may help. It uses parts of your own blood to help your body heal itself. PRP can help your back feel better and work better.
What Causes Facet Joint Pain?
Facet joint pain can develop from:
- Arthritis (Facet Joint Osteoarthritis)
- Traumatic Injuries, such as from motor vehicle accidents
- Degenerative Conditions, including:
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Scoliosis
- Slipped Vertebrae (Spondylolisthesis)
- Spondylolysis (Spinal Fractures)
- Compression Fractures
- Skeletal Irregularities
Diagnosis: Identifying Facet Joint Pain
At OPS Surgery Center, we use comprehensive diagnostic techniques to accurately diagnose facet joint pain, including:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Advanced imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scan
Accurate diagnosis allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain and restore function.
Treatment Options for Facet Joint Pain
At OPS Surgery Center, we offer a range of non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments tailored to your needs.
Conservative Treatment Approaches
- Physical Therapy – Focuses on postural correction, stretching, and strengthening core and back muscles
- Massage Therapy – Relieves muscle tension and improves circulation
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) – Uses mild electrical currents for pain relief
- Acupuncture & Chiropractic Care – Helps restore alignment and reduce nerve irritation
- Pilates & Yoga – Improves flexibility and spinal support
Minimally Invasive Procedures
If conservative treatments are ineffective, we may recommend:
- Facet Joint Injections – Delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected joint
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) – Uses radio wave energy to desensitize pain-causing nerves, providing long-lasting relief
Regenerative Medicine Treatments
For those seeking cutting-edge alternatives, we offer:
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – Uses your own blood’s growth factors to reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Stem Cell Therapy – Encourages tissue regeneration to slow joint degeneration and improve function
Note: PRP and stem cell therapies are considered experimental and are typically not covered by medical insurance.
Take Control of Your Spinal Health with OPS Surgery Center
Facet joint pain can limit movement and reduce quality of life, but with the right treatment, long-term relief is possible. At OPS Surgery Center, we specialize in personalized, state-of-the-art treatments to help you regain mobility and live pain-free.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and find the best treatment options for your facet joint pain!
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