What Is Facet Joint Arthropathy?
Facet joint arthropathy, also referred to as facet joint arthritis, occurs when the small joints at the back of the spine undergo degeneration and inflammation. These joints play a critical role in controlling spinal movement and maintaining stability.
When facet joints become arthritic, the smooth cartilage lining wears down, leading to friction, inflammation, and pain. This differs from disc-related pain, as facet joint arthropathy originates from joint degeneration rather than disc damage.
As the condition progresses, it can interfere with everyday activities such as:
- Pain during bending, twisting, or extension movements
- Stiffness after rest or prolonged sitting
- Discomfort while standing or walking for long periods
- Reduced ability to work, exercise, or sleep comfortably
Without appropriate non-surgical care, these limitations may persist or worsen over time.
Understanding the Facet Joints and Spinal Movement
Facet joints are paired joints located at the back of each vertebra. Along with discs and ligaments, they help guide and limit spinal motion.
In conditions such as lumbar facet arthropathy or cervical facet arthropathy, degeneration alters normal joint mechanics. This leads to abnormal movement, increased joint loading, and inflammation, which contribute to chronic pain and reduced spinal flexibility.
Stages of Facet Joint Arthropathy
Stage 1
Early Degeneration
Mild cartilage wears with intermittent pain and stiffness during activity.
Stage 2
Progressive Arthritis
Increased joint inflammation, persistent pain, and reduced tolerance for spinal movements.
Stage 3
Advanced Arthropathy
Chronic pain, significant stiffness, and functional limitation due to joint degeneration.
Understanding disease progression helps set realistic expectations and guides appropriate facet joint pain treatment.
Facet Joint Arthropathy Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- Localized neck or lower back pain
- Stiffness, especially after inactivity
- Pain worsened by extension or twisting
- Reduced range of motion
Symptoms That Need Medical Evaluation
- Pain lasting several weeks
- Increasing stiffness or discomfort
- Difficulty performing daily activities
- Night pain or disturbed sleep
Causes and Risk Factors
Facet joint arthropathy develops due to degenerative changes in spinal joints. Contributing factors include:
Age-related tear:
Repetitive stress & posture:
Prior spinal injury:
Degenerative disc changes:
In some individuals, facet joint arthritis develops gradually without a clear initiating event.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosis of facet joint arthropathy involves:
- Detailed clinical evaluation by a pain specialist
- Assessment of pain patterns and spinal movement
- Review of medical history and activity levels
Imaging tests are used when required to confirm joint degeneration or rule out other spinal conditions.
Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments for Facet Joint Arthropathy
Most cases of facet joint arthropathy can be managed without surgery. Advanced non-surgical treatments are considered when medications and physiotherapy alone do not adequately control pain or restore function.
The Nivaan Way
At Nivaan, interventional procedures for facet joint arthropathy are performed under image guidance wherever appropriate. This ensures precise targeting of affected joints and nerves, improving safety and clinical outcomes.
Facet Joint Injections
Nerve Blocks and Radiofrequency Ablation
Regenerative Medicine (PRP-Based Therapies)
Recovery Support: Physiotherapy, Nutrition, and Pain Counselling
Recovery outcomes improve when medical treatment is supported by rehabilitation and daily care.
Physiotherapy:
Nutrition:
Pain Counselling:
This integrated approach helps patients return to daily activities with confidence.
When to See an Interventional Pain Specialist
Consult a specialist if you experience:
- Pain persisting for several weeks
- Worsening stiffness or spinal discomfort
- Restricted neck or back movement
- Symptoms affecting daily activities or sleep
Early specialist care improves outcomes and prevents progression.
Our Integrated Non-Surgical Care Pathway
- Comprehensive specialist assessment
- Accurate diagnosis and pain source identification
- Personalized non-surgical treatment planning
- Guided physiotherapy and recovery monitoring
Book an Appointment for Facet Joint Arthropathy Treatment
Early non-surgical management of facet joint arthropathy can relieve pain, restore movement, and prevent long-term disability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most cases respond well to non-surgical, interventional pain management.
Facet joint injection helps diagnose and reduce inflammation-related pain.
No, facet joint arthritis originates from joint degeneration, not disc damage.
Relief duration varies, but interventional treatments can provide long-lasting benefits.
Early care prevents progression and improves long-term outcomes.