In general, diagnostic imaging and/or injection tests are not needed to treat and help resolve an episode of pain. If a clinical diagnosis of lumbar facet joint pain is suspected, first-line treatment options, such as medication, physical therapy, and spinal manipulation, may be advised.
INTERLOCKING SHOOTING BLOCKS SKIN
Neurological examination, including tests of muscle strength, skin sensation, and reflexes.Segmental examination to check each spinal segment for proper motion.Range of motion tests to check mobility and alignment of the involved joints.Hands-on inspection by palpating for tender areas and muscle spasm.Visual inspection of the overall posture and skin overlying the affected area.A medical exam may include some combination of the following tests: The doctor may gently palpate (feel) the lower back to check for tender spots and muscle reflex activity in the legs to rule out possible nerve dysfunction. The doctor reviews the patient’s main complaints and asks about the onset of pain duration and types of signs and symptoms concomitant medical conditions and drug and/or surgical history. The physical evaluation is likely to include multiple elements of a comprehensive exam.
The initial step usually involves a doctor’s visit. Pain may occur on both sides (bilaterally) if both facets at a spinal segment are affected.ĭiagnosis of Lumbar Facet Joint DisordersĪ combination of clinical evaluation and medical imaging and/or diagnostic injection tests are usually considered to diagnose facet joint pain. If a single facet on one side of the spine is affected, the pain may be localized to one side of the lower back and thigh. Arthritic changes in the facets may cause a feeling of grinding or grating in the joints upon movement. If the lumbar facet pain is due to arthritic conditions, stiffness may be present in the joint, typically felt more in the mornings or after a period of long rest, and is usually relieved after resuming physical activity. The pain may be relieved while bending forward. Prolonged sitting, such as driving a car, may also worsen the pain. The pain is usually worse in the morning, after long periods of inactivity, after heavy exercise, and/or while rotating or bending the spine backward. The pain may become more pronounced when the area over the affected facet in the lower back is gently pressed. Muscle weakness and fatigue may also occur in the affected leg. If a spinal nerve is irritated or compressed at the facet joint (such as from a facet bone spur), a sharp, shooting pain (sciatica) may radiate into the buttock, thigh, leg, and/or foot. 3 This type of pain is usually caused by facet arthritis and is experienced as a distinct discomfort, typically characterized by a dull ache. 1, 2 Pain may also be referred to the abdomen and/or pelvis. The pain may be referred to the buttocks, hips, thighs, or knees, rarely extending below the knee. A dull ache is typically present in the lower back. Symptoms of Lumbar Facet Joint Disordersĭepending on the number of facets affected, the severity of the condition, and the possible involvement of a nearby nerve root, one or more of the following signs and symptoms may occur: These conditions also typically occur together, causing overlapping symptoms, which tends to make the diagnostic process more challenging. Several signs and symptoms of facet joint disorders may be similar to other lower back conditions, such as degenerative disc disease. In case of spinal nerve root impingement, radicular leg pain ( sciatica) may occur. This pain is usually worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Lumbar facet joint disorders most commonly cause lower back pain that is characterized by a localized ache with some degree of stiffness.
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