Facet Joint Syndrome

Facet Joint Syndrome is a common source of chronic neck or back pain caused by inflammation or degeneration of the small joints that connect the vertebrae. These joints—called facet joints—allow flexibility and stability in the spine, but when irritated by arthritis, injury, or repetitive stress, they can produce localized pain and stiffness. At Pain Consultants of East Tennessee, we diagnose and treat facet joint pain using advanced, minimally invasive techniques designed to restore comfort and movement.

Quick Facts

  • Region affected: Cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine
  • Common symptoms: Localized neck or back pain, stiffness, and pain with twisting or extension
  • Causes: Arthritis, disc degeneration, injury, or repetitive spinal stress
  • Treatment goal: Reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve range of motion

Who It Helps

  • Adults with chronic neck or back pain that worsens with movement
  • Individuals with arthritis or degenerative spine conditions
  • Patients with pain after whiplash or spinal injury
  • People whose pain improves when sitting but worsens with standing or bending backward

How It Develops

Facet joints help guide and stabilize spinal motion. Over time, these joints can become inflamed or arthritic due to age-related wear, trauma, or stress from disc degeneration. The irritated joints then produce pain that may stay localized or radiate into nearby areas such as the shoulders, buttocks, or thighs.

What To Expect

Your provider will perform a physical exam, review imaging, and may recommend diagnostic injections to confirm that the facet joints are the source of your pain. Treatment typically includes:

  • Facet Joint Injections: Deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Medial Branch Blocks: Temporarily numb the nerves that carry pain signals from the facet joints.
  • Radiofrequency Neurotomy: Uses heat energy to deactivate these nerves for longer-term pain relief.
  • Physical Therapy: Improves flexibility, posture, and muscle support for the spine.

Benefits & Risks

Benefits

  • Relieve chronic neck, mid-back, or low-back pain
  • Restore flexibility and daily function
  • Reduce inflammation and stiffness
  • Delay or prevent the need for surgery

Risks

  • Persistent pain and stiffness
  • Decreased spinal mobility
  • Progression of joint degeneration
  • Muscle weakness or postural imbalance

Is It Right For Me? (Checklist)

  • ✅ Chronic neck or back pain worsens with twisting or bending
  • ✅ Imaging or diagnostic blocks indicate facet joint involvement
  • ✅ Minimal relief from medications or therapy alone
  • ✅ Desire for minimally invasive pain management options

Alternatives At PCET

FAQs

  • Is facet joint syndrome the same as arthritis of the spine? It’s similar—facet joint arthritis is a common cause of facet joint pain.
  • Can the pain spread? Yes—while often localized, pain may radiate into nearby muscles or limbs depending on the level affected.
  • Will injections fix the problem? Injections relieve pain and inflammation, allowing better function and participation in therapy.
  • Can it be cured? While degenerative changes can’t be reversed, symptoms can be effectively managed.
  • Is it covered by insurance? Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover diagnostic and therapeutic injections when indicated.

What Happens Next?

After you are evaluated for Facet Joint Syndrome, your provider will review your symptoms, imaging, and how your pain affects movement, stiffness, posture, and daily activities.

If your symptoms improve with treatment, your provider may discuss follow-up care, physical therapy, functional rehabilitation, or other ways to help support your progress.

If you do not get the relief you were hoping for, that does not mean you are out of options. Your provider may reassess whether your pain is coming from the facet joints, another spinal structure, or a different source altogether.

Possible next steps may include:

  • Reviewing your symptoms and imaging again
  • Evaluating other possible pain sources
  • Additional diagnostic testing when appropriate
  • A different injection, procedure, or treatment option
  • Physical therapy or functional rehabilitation
  • Other treatment options available through PCET

The goal is to better understand what is contributing to your pain and determine the next best step for your care.

📞 Call to Schedule

If you’re living with persistent neck or back pain caused by Facet Joint Syndrome, we offer advanced diagnostic and interventional options to help you move with less pain. Call us at 865-934-2567 to schedule your appointment today.