Facet joint lesions
Facet Joint Lesions of the
Understanding Facet Joints and Low Back Pain
Facet joints are small but vital structures at the back of your spine. They act as the guides for movement, helping the lumbar spine bend, twist, and stay stable. When facet joints become irritated, inflamed, or degenerate over time, they can become a major source of low back pain.
At Marsden Park Chiropractic, we see many patients whose spinal discomfort is linked directly to facet joint problems. Identifying and addressing these issues early can make a significant difference to pain outcomes and long‑term health.
Other
Back Pain
Neck Pain
Headaches & Migraines
Sciatica
Sports Injuries
Posture Problems
Slipped Disc
Workplace Injuries
Neck Pain
- Whiplash
- Non-specific Neck Pain
- Torticollis
What Are Facet Joint Lesions?
Facet joint lesions can occur when these joints are:
- Overloaded due to disc degeneration or poor posture,
- Inflamed (facet joint synovitis),
- Arthritic with cartilage wear and tear,
- Affected by instability where joints move beyond their limits,
- Producing secondary problems such as synovial cysts.
- Localised low back pain,
- Catching or sharp pain with certain movements,
- Pain referral into the buttock or thigh,
- Episodes that feel worse when standing or arching backwards, yet often better when sitting.
Why Facet Joints Become Vulnerable
Facet joints are prone to injury and degeneration because of:
- Increased loading when discs shrink or lose height
- Changes in posture and repetitive strain
- Proprioceptive decline – the nervous system struggles to sense subtle joint positions
- Muscle deconditioning, particularly of the multifidus
- Age-related arthritis and degeneration.
Clinical Signs and Imaging Insights
- Facet joint pain rarely centralises (unlike disc pain).
- Extension-rotation tests may suggest facet involvement, especially if painful.
- Imaging such as MRI or X‑ray can highlight:
- Facet joint swelling or fluid,
- Hypertrophy (enlargement),
- Thickening of the ligamentum flavum,
- Signs of segmental instability.
Chiropractic Management in Marsden Park
At Marsden Park Chiropractic, care plans for facet-mediated back pain focus on:
- Gentle spinal mobilisation and chiropractic adjustments when appropriate,
- Targeted rehab to reactivate multifidus and core muscles,
- Postural retraining to relieve load on painful joints,
- Advice on safe movement patterns to reduce flare-ups,
- Collaboration with GPs or specialists if imaging or injections are warranted.
FAQs:
What Causes Facet Joint Pain?
Facet pain often results from arthritis, degeneration, instability or repetitive strain.
How Does It Differ From A Disc Problem?
Facet pain is typically to the side of the spine and often improves when sitting. Disc pain usually worsens with sitting.
Can Chiropractic Care Help?
Yes. Chiropractic treatment can improve movement, reduce irritation, and strengthen supporting muscles.
Will I Need Surgery?
Most patients improve with conservative care. Surgery is usually limited to advanced cases with instability or neural compression.
How Do I Know If My Pain Is From The Facets?
Through physical assessment, exclusion of other causes, and occasionally MRI or diagnostic blocks.
Is Facet Joint Pain Long-Term?
Not always. With targeted treatment and lifestyle adjustments, symptoms can often be well-managed.
Marsden Park Chiropractic –
If you’re experiencing ongoing low back pain, especially discomfort that catches with movement but feels easier when sitting, your facet joints may be the underlying cause.
At Marsden Park Chiropractic, we combine modern examination, personalised treatment, and rehabilitative care to help restore your comfort and mobility.
Book your appointment today and take the next step toward a stronger, more resilient spine.
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