How Is Osteoarthritis Of The Facet Joints Diagnosed And Treated?

 The terms hip osteoarthritis and knee osteoarthritis are most frequently used. However, osteoarthritis is also commonly found in other joints. For instance, back pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion are caused by facet joint osteoarthritis.

On the rear of the spine are the facet joints. Every pair of vertebrae has two facet joints; one facet joint of each pair is located on either side of the spine. A facet joint is made up of two bony protuberances. They join two of your vertebrae where the knobs meet. Speak with your back pain doctor NJ about the best treatment options.

Reasons

Facet joint osteoarthritis is brought on by the degeneration of the facet joint's articular cartilage. Facet joint osteoarthritis can develop later in life as a result of prior fractures and traumas, although spinal degeneration is the primary cause and takes time to manifest.

Signs of Osteoarthritis

The main sign of osteoarthritis of the facet joints is pain. Osteoarthritis of the facet joints typically does not cause symptoms of nerve compression. On the other hand, a bone spur that forms at the facet joint's margins may rub on a nerve and result in tingling, numbness, and weakness in the muscles.  If you feel any signs of osteoarthritis of the facet joint, you must visit a back pain doctor woodland for your check-up.

Identification

Facet joint osteoarthritis is diagnosed via a physical test, medical record, and X-rays or other imaging techniques, as with most arthritic disorders. Degeneration of the spine, facet joints, and bone spurs surrounding the afflicted facet joint will be visible on the X-ray pictures.

Using a specific dye and a fluoroscope, your professional back pain doctor Clifton, may also administer a diagnostic injection to pinpoint the exact location of the discomfort.

Handling

To treat facet joint osteoarthritis, pain, and inflammation must be decreased. Quick rest intervals are beneficial. Medications used to treat symptoms include muscle relaxants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), and even reducing the dosage of steroids. The facet joints can be relieved of some of the pressure by specific workouts and body positions.

 

If alternative conservative therapies are not providing relief, you may consider facet joint injections with anesthetic or steroid drugs. They address discomfort in the lower back, middle back, or neck. Occasionally, an anesthetic is injected first to check if it reduces discomfort.

The Mechanism of Spinal Osteoarthritis

The spine contains several facet joints, all in constant motion and weight-bearing. The cartilage in a facet joint may weaken or disintegrate due to daily stress.

 

Apart from normal wear and tear, additional variables like heredity, excessive inflammation, and prior joint traumas can also contribute to cartilage degeneration.

In summary

Facet joint Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition characterized by the loss of significant cartilage in the tiny facet joints of the spine. The vertebral bodies can move smoothly because of the cartilage covering their joints.

 

The degeneration of a facet joint affects the joint itself and the intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies attached to each vertebral segment. Our team of back pain specialists Paramus provides patients with various treatment options for facet joint arthritis, such as chiropractic adjustments, noninvasive therapies, lifestyle counseling, and physical therapy.