What is facet joint arthropathy?

Our backk of spine is made of small joint named facet joint. It allows us bending and twisting movements. Because of any injury to our back, wear and tear and age leads into arthritic changes or degenerations. It is most commonly seen in elderly . But it is also seen in young patients.

How facet joint pain perceived?

It is most common in lower back. Back pain is very common, unilateral back pain with radiating pain in the buttock and posterior thigh pain. It never goes below knee. It increases with extension of spine and with rotatory movement. Pain may be worse in morning with stiffness or activity.

How it is diagnosed ?

• It is diagnosed clinically (after examining the patients). Sometimes Xray, MRI may be needed to rule out exact cause of pain.
• It is precisely diagnosed by giving diagnostic block at suspected level.

How facet joint is treated ?

• Initial treatment with anti-inflammatory medications.
• Facet joint injection : it is the best treatment.
• Under IITV guidance, we give anti-inflammatory drugs into affected facet joint.
• We do Radiofrequency Ablation of median nerve, supplying the facet joints.
• It is performed under local anaesthesia and daycare procedures.