Facet joint arthritis is a condition where the bones of the spine show wear and tear, causing pain and stiffness. It can be caused by aging or injury and is treated with movement, stretching, and gentle strengthening exercises. Morning stiffness can be relieved by movement.
Facet joint arthritis, also known as facet arthropathy, is a condition in which the bones of the spine begin to show signs of wear and tear. Located between and behind neighboring bones, the facet joints connect spinal bones together and provide a secure bond. Osteoarthritis, the common arthritic condition affecting the facet joints, occurs when the flexible connecting tissue or cartilage surrounding the joint begins to deteriorate.
Each facet joint is made up of cartilage between the bones of the spine from the neck to the lower back. When this cartilage becomes damaged, movement in that area of the spine becomes strained. This additional friction can lead to pain or stiffness in the back or neck area and can cause the damage to worsen over time. The degenerative form of arthritis affecting the facet joints can also lead to a reduction in spinal flexibility, resulting in a loss of normal spinal motion.
Problems with the spine such as those seen with facet joint arthritis can result from the normal aging process, which weakens the stability of bony connections. Facet arthritis can also be triggered by an injury. Once there is damage to the bones, joints, ligaments or discs associated with the spine, that damage creates a stress point which increases the likelihood that some form of deterioration will occur in the area of the injury.
Arthritis damage also affects the fluid-filled protective shell around the joint. This fluid is designed to minimize resistance as the bones move. Morning stiffness due to facet joint arthritis occurs because there is a lack of lubrication. Fluid is replenished through movement. If the body continues to be still, back pain and stiffness can persist throughout the day.
The best treatment for this condition is to keep movement as normal as possible. Bed rest is sometimes recommended when symptoms are exacerbated. Because immobility can make pain worse, it should only be used for a day or two.
Stretching the back and neck areas can help relieve some of the pain and related symptoms of facet joint arthritis. This is also an effective way to maximize spinal flexibility. A gentle strengthening program, such as a water routine, can also help protect your spine from further injury and damage. Symptoms, however, may become more pronounced as the day progresses and as normal activities or exercise routines intensify the strain placed on the spine and facet joints.
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