Treatment for Facet Syndrome in San Leandro
The facet joints in the spine allow the neck and back to bend and twist for fluid movement. Like all joints in the body, the small facet joints have cartilage and fluids between the bones to allow this movement. When facet joints are damaged, they can become inflamed and stiff, resulting in pain or limited mobility, a condition called facet syndrome. Our spine and pain specialists at Allied Pain & Spine Institute offer treatment for facet syndrome in San Leandro, CA.
Symptoms of Facet Syndrome
Individuals with facet syndrome can have significant neck or lower back pain. The facet joint affected is usually in the cervical or lumbar regions where there is more spinal movement. Generalized pain in these areas is the main symptom, which can be worse after sitting or staying in the same position for longer periods of time. The neck or back may feel stiff when changing positions. Symptoms can vary from patient to patient, depending on the facet joints affected.
What Causes Facet Syndrome?
Most people who experience facet syndrome are over 50. This condition is usually caused by wear and tear on the facet joints over time. For those under 50 who experience facet syndrome, the damage to the joints is often caused by an injury to the spine or other contributing factors such as poor posture or repetitive movements. Conditions such as degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis or other inflammatory issues can increase the risk for facet syndrome.
Improving Facet Syndrome Pain
Restoring fluid facet joint movement can help reduce pain and stiffness caused by facet syndrome. One of the most effective treatments for facet syndrome pain are facet joint injections. This can help diagnose the condition and offer relief. Our physicians utilize cutting-edge imaging to perform guided facet joint injections to deliver anti-inflammatory medication into the spine. Some patients may also receive other interventional pain management treatments, such as cryotherapy or spinal cord stimulation (SCS).
If you have pain or stiffness in the neck or back, you may be experiencing facet syndrome. To explore treatment for your pain, contact our team at Allied Pain & Spine Institute. Call our clinic in the South Bay area to schedule a consultation for facet syndrome treatment.