What Is Facet Arthropathy?
Facet arthropathy is an arthritic condition that affects the facet joints in the spine. These joints are on each vertebrae and are located between the pedicle and lamina of the same vertebrae. They help to facilitate the proper bending, twisting, and alignment of the spine. Facet arthropathy occurs when the joints rub roughly together, becoming inflamed and painful.
What Causes Facet Arthropathy?
There are multiple different causes of facet arthropathy. The main cause is joint degradation from wear and tear as we age. In a healthy individual, the facet joints easily slip over each other due to a layer of smooth cartilage and slick joint fluid. As we age, the cartilage and fluid naturally begin to fade, leading to increased friction on the joints. Injury is another, less common, cause of face arthropathy. Some spine conditions, like degenerative disc disease, can also lead to facet arthropathy. The Spinal disc helps to support each vertebra and the position of the facet joints. When these discs become thinner, it can lead to improper facet joint connection and movement. Factors that can increase your risk of developing facet arthropathy include:
- Aging
- Trauma
- Being overweight
- Poor posture
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Repeated bending or twisting
Symptoms of Facet Arthropathy
Facet arthropathy is a type of arthritis that can occur anywhere along the spine. Common symptoms include lower back pain that worsens when twisting, bending, or standing. Pain is typically localized to the area of the spine affected by the conditions, but it can also manifest as a dull ache occurring on one or both sides of the lower back. If the joint becomes enlarged, it can press against nerves, causing radiating or shooting pain down the legs.
How is Facet Arthropathy Diagnosed?
At SpineCare of NY, diagnosing facet arthropathy begins with a physical examination. You will be asked about your pain and may be directed to perform certain movements or exercises to replicate the pain. This allows your physician to better locate which vertebrae are affected. Further diagnostic tests may include imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
How is Facet Arthropathy Treated?
At SpineCare of NY our surgical and non-surgical physicians work closely together to develop the most minimally invasive treatment possible to ensure you experience relief with minimal downtime. In the case of facet arthropathy, treatments can range from non-invasive to surgical. Minimally invasive treatment options can include physical therapy, medications, injections, and lifestyle changes. When conservative measures aren’t enough to provide your relief, surgical interventions like a laminectomy or fusion may be required.
Schedule a Consultation
The physicians at SpineCare of NY are dedicated to providing the most advanced and up-to-date solutions to your spinal condition by continuing to engage in ongoing research. We are affiliated with HSS, Hospital for Special Surgery, the number one ranked orthopedic hospital in the United States, ensuring you are in capable hands throughout the entirety of your spinal health journey. To schedule a consultation and learn more about facet arthropathy, head to our website and fill out an online contact form.
SpineCare of NY is located at 523 East 72nd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10021.
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