Facet Arthritis
Things to Know about Facet Arthritis
Facet arthritis refers to joints in the lumbar area. The spine is aligned so that all the vertebrae are stacked on each other, and they provide a movable structure of support, while they also protect the spinal cord. The spinal cord is the nervous tissue that extends from the brain down the spinal column.
Each separate vertebra has a bony structure behind the spinal cord, and this shields the nervous tissue of the spinal cord. They also have a bony piece in front of the spinal cord that makes up a platform for all the weight-bearing tissues above the buttocks. The posterior of the vertebra contains joints called facet joints, one on either side, that join the vertebra and allow them to move. The facet joints have a layer of cartilage, which is smooth and surrounded by ligaments. It is lubricated by synovial fluid. These facet joints can become inflamed, just like the knee or the hip joint, and they can cause facet arthritis back pain. The discomfort and pain that you experience is caused by arthritis and degeneration of that part of the spine. This is called facet arthropathy, which means an abnormality or disease of the facet joints.
There are pads, called discs, that act as cushions between each vertebra, and they minimize the impact that motion has on the spinal column. Every disc is designed like a jelly-type donut, with a softer center. This center can sometimes rupture through the outer ring, and it irritates nervous tissues around it.
The lower back fulfills some important functions, such as movement, support and it also protects other body tissues. When we are standing, the lower back is holding most of the body's weight. When we rotate, extend or bend, the lower back is involved there, too. Injury to the structures of the lumbar area can usually be detected when you are standing or engaging in some specific movements.
Most people affected by facet arthritis will experience pain in the lower back that tends to be worse when they twist or extend the lumbar spine. This pain is sometimes very localized, and it doesn't radiate into surrounding areas. As facet joins develop arthritis, they become less able to protect the nerve roots of the spinal column. If arthritis affects the spinal cord this DOES cause numbness and pain in surrounding areas like the legs and buttocks.
Pain in the lower back is usually caused by facet joint syndrome. Pain is commonly not just in the lower back, but sometimes also in the buttock and thighs. When these joints are inflamed, it can be hard to stand straight, or get up from bed or a chair.
Several treatments are indicated for facet arthritis. The first is not using the part of the body affected, and you may also be prescribed anti-biotics. Sometimes injections can help the pain level. Additionally, a specialist can block the pain transmissions from the nerve to the brain, thus blocking the impulse of pain. Surgery may also be used to relieve facet arthritis pain. Usually people can be helped by one of more of these methods.