Meta Facet disease is a condition experienced by many individuals as a result of aging. Learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options here.
When the spinal facet joints break down, pain, swelling, and tenderness can result. This condition is known as facet disease (spinal osteoarthritis). The following facet disease overview will help you understand this degenerative condition’s causes, symptoms, and treatments. If chronic pain has put your life on hold, using this information in partnership with your primary care doctor may help you get back to the life you’ve been missing.
Facet Disease Causes
Facet joints are part of the vertebrae and flex behind and between each segment to give motion and flexibility to the spine. An everyday activity can cause these joints and their underlying layers of cartilage to break down. The main cause of this is aging, which happens to everyone.
In addition to general wear and aging, the main causes of this condition include poor posture, genetics, traumatic injury, and weight. Spondylolisthesis, a condition where a vertebra slips forward concerning the one below it, can also result in facet disease.
Facet Disease Symptoms
Facet disease symptoms can be similar to other problems like strained muscles, stress fractures, and slipped discs, so self-diagnosis is not recommended. Symptoms that are specific to the degeneration of spinal joints include:
- Inflammation
- Lower back pain
- Muscle spasms
- Swelling
- Joint or muscle stiffness
These symptoms are typically associated with activities such as bending, twisting, lifting or even sitting for prolonged periods or looking at the computer screen.
Facet Disease Treatments
If you think your neck or back pain may be from this condition, reach out to your healthcare provider. They can make a proper diagnosis and prescribe a course of treatment that is best for you.
While many patients can find acceptable relief and resume normal activities through conservative treatments, sometimes symptoms remain after weeks or months of therapy. If you are considering surgery but are concerned about some of the risks and difficulties involved, contact BEST Health System.
