Facet Syndrome And Arthritis

Facet Syndrome, one of the most common causes of back pain, is a condition affecting  the joint facets of the superior articular process of one vertebra and the inferior articular process of the vertebra above it. Each vertebra has two facet joints, one with the corresponding vertebra above it, and one with the corresponding vertebra below it.

In Facet Syndrome the cartilage on these joint surfaces has deteriorated to the point where friction between the joints causes swelling, tenderness and pain. Often nerve impingement also occurs. Facet syndrome can occur anywhere throughout the spine but occurs most often (approximately 55% of cases) in the cervical (neck) vertebrae, and 31% of cases occur in the lumbar (lower back) vertebrae.

Facet syndrome typically develops into spinal osteoarthritis (spondylosis). Facet syndrome is most often age related but can occur due to injury.

  • Being overweight increases your risk of developing facet Syndrome.
  • Excessive use due to sports or other active lifestyles.
  • Injuries from whiplash or even odd sleeping positions can injure your spine.
  • Sudden jerking motion of the neck, improper lifting, or any other trauma to the spine can increase the risk of developing Facet Syndrome.
  • Persons with a family history of facet syndrome are at higher risk.
  • Extended periods of heavy labor (construction work).
  • Disease: gout, arthritis, and infections increase the risk of developing Facet Syndrome.

The Chicago pain management doctors at Premier Pain & Spine have extensive experience for the treatment of back and neck pain due to facet syndrome and arthritis. This includes both medical and interventional Chicago pain management.

There are 7 Chicago pain clinic locations, call (847) 519 4701 for more information and scheduling today!

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