Understanding Your Facet Joint Syndrome Diagnosis

Facet joint syndrome is a common but often misunderstood source of neck and back pain. At Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute, with offices serving Plainsboro Township, Manalapan, Hamilton, and Freehold, New Jersey, Ronak D. Patel, MD, and our team frequently help patients make sense of this diagnosis and find effective ways to manage their symptoms.

Facet joints explained

Facet joints are small, paired joints located at each level of the spine. They connect your vertebrae and provide stability while allowing for smooth, controlled movement like bending, twisting, and extending your back or neck.

These joints are lined with cartilage and surrounded by a capsule filled with lubricating fluid, much like other joints in your body.

Understanding facet joint syndrome

Facet joint syndrome occurs when these joints become inflamed, irritated, or degenerated. This can happen due to age-related wear and tear (osteoarthritis), repetitive stress, injury, or poor posture over time.

As your cartilage wears down or the joint becomes inflamed, it can lead to localized pain and stiffness.

Common symptoms

Patients with facet joint syndrome often describe a deep, aching pain in the neck or lower back. The pain may worsen with certain movements, such as twisting, standing for long periods, or leaning backward.

Some people also experience referred pain, which can spread to the shoulders, upper back, buttocks, or thighs, but typically not below the knee or into the hands.

Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity or in the morning, is also common. Unlike nerve-related conditions, facet joint pain usually does not cause significant numbness, tingling, or weakness.

How we diagnose facet joint syndrome

Diagnosing facet joint syndrome starts with a detailed discussion of your symptoms and a physical examination. At our practice, we look for specific patterns of pain and movement that point to the facet joints as the source.

Imaging studies such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) may help identify joint degeneration or rule out other conditions. In some cases, we use diagnostic injections, where we numb the facet joint or its nerve supply to confirm the diagnosis. 

If the pain temporarily improves after the injection, it strongly suggests the facet joint is the cause.

Treatment options

Treatment for facet joint syndrome is personalized based on your symptoms and overall health. Many patients find relief with conservative approaches such as physical therapy, posture correction, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modification.

For more persistent pain, we may recommend facet joint injections to reduce inflammation and provide relief. In some cases, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), a minimally invasive procedure that disrupts pain signals from the affected nerves, can offer longer-lasting results.

At Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute, we also focus on regenerative therapies that support healing and improve joint function whenever appropriate.

Moving forward

A diagnosis of facet joint syndrome can feel frustrating, but it’s manageable when you have our expert team on your side. We’re committed to helping you understand your condition and guiding you toward treatments that restore comfort and mobility.

You don’t have to suffer from facet joint syndrome. Give our office a call today at 609-269-4451, or book an appointment online at the location nearest you.