Degenerative Facet Joint Disease

Degenerative facet joint disease affects the spine.

Degenerative facet joint disease is a type of osteoarthritis that occurs in the spine. Facet joints are part of each vertebra and facilitate movements such as rotation or flexion. The condition in which the cartilage that covers these joints starts breaking down is called facet joint disease.

Causes

Simple wear and tear associated with aging is generally considered the cause of this osteoarthritic condition. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that spinal injuries and obesity can also contribute.

Symptoms

The predominant symptom is pain in the joint or joints where the condition is present. Other symptoms that can occur are swelling, reduced range of motion, bone spurs and muscle weakness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically entails a physical examination and an X-ray to look for degeneration in the tissues. In another test that can be performed, a short-lived pain blocker is injected into the joint, which--if it works--confirms the diagnosis.

Treatments

Treatments vary depending on the degree of joint damage but can include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter or prescription painkillers and physical therapy. Surgery to inhibit or destroy the nerves signaling pain may be used in some cases.

Long-Term

There is no cure for spinal osteoarthritic conditions. Treatments can only reduce pain and slow the progression.

References

• National Institutes of Health: Osteoarthritis
• Atlantic Spinal Care: Treatment Options for Facet Joint Disease
• Spine Universe: Spondylosis