Facet Joint Pain Relief | Isleworth Pain and Injury

Facet Joint Dysfunction

Facet Joint Dysfunction is a common cause of back pain, often affecting the spine's ability to move freely and comfortably. These small joints, located between the vertebrae, allow for smooth movement and stability in the spine. When these joints become irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

At Isleworth Pain and Injury Clinic, our team of experienced chiropractors and physiotherapists is dedicated to helping you understand and treat facet joint dysfunction effectively, offering personalised treatments tailored to your needs.

What Is Facet Joint Dysfunction?

Facet joints are small, paired joints that connect the vertebrae in your spine, playing a crucial role in allowing movement and providing stability. These joints can become a source of pain when they are irritated, inflamed, or injured. The pain often originates in the back and can radiate to the neck or hips, depending on the affected area.

Facet joint dysfunction can be caused by various factors, including:

Ageing and wear-and-tear (degenerative changes)
Injury or trauma
Postural problems
Excessive or improper movement
Muscle imbalances or weakness

Symptoms of Facet Joint Dysfunction

The symptoms of facet joint dysfunction can vary from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Common symptoms include:

Localised pain in the neck, back, or hips
Pain that worsens with certain movements, such as twisting or bending
Stiffness and reduced range of motion
Pain that radiates to the arms or legs
Headaches (in cases where the cervical facet joints are affected)
Tenderness in the affected area when touched or pressed

How Is Facet Joint Dysfunction Diagnosed?

A thorough assessment is necessary to diagnose facet joint dysfunction. At Isleworth Pain and Injury Clinic, we employ a combination of techniques to determine the cause of your pain, including:

Detailed case history: Understanding your symptoms and lifestyle factors
Physical examination: Evaluating posture, flexibility, and movement
Range of motion tests: Identifying areas of stiffness or discomfort
Diagnostic imaging (if necessary): X-rays or MRI scans to assess joint condition

Based on these findings, we can develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of your facet joint dysfunction.

Treatment Options for Facet Joint Dysfunction

Facet joint dysfunction can be effectively treated with a combination of chiropractic and physiotherapy care. Our multidisciplinary approach at Isleworth Pain and Injury Clinic focuses on both pain relief and long-term rehabilitation.

Chiropractic Care:

Spinal adjustments: Gentle manipulation to improve joint mobility and restore proper alignment
Manual therapy: To relieve stiffness, reduce muscle tension, and improve movement
Postural correction: Educating patients on proper posture to prevent strain on the facet joints

Physiotherapy:

Strengthening exercises: Targeting core and supporting muscles to provide stability to the spine
Stretching and flexibility exercises: Improving the range of motion and reducing stiffness
Soft tissue mobilisation: To release tight muscles and improve blood flow
Ergonomic advice: Helping you make lifestyle adjustments to avoid exacerbating the condition

By addressing both the symptoms and the root cause of your pain, we aim to reduce discomfort, improve function, and enhance your quality of life.

Preventing Recurrence

To help prevent future episodes of facet joint dysfunction, consider the following strategies:

Regular physical activity: To strengthen the muscles supporting your spine
Posture improvement: Maintain good posture when sitting, standing and lifting
Avoid excessive bending or twisting motions
Stay at a healthy weight: Extra weight can strain the spine and its joints
Engage in regular stretching, especially for the back, shoulders, and hips