Facet joint are plane synovial joints between the superior and inferior articular processes of adjacent vertebrae. Each facet joint is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue and produces synovial fluids, which lubricate the joint. Facet syndrome is commonly associated with traumatic hyperextension type injuries, faulty posture and degenerative changes to the lumbar spine. These types of causes, all produce inflammation to the vertebral joint capsule and therefore gives rise to infra-articular pressure resulting in acute lower back pain. The lower back pain is well localized and may produce leg pain above the knee and into the hip/buttock regions. Most common characteristic of facet syndrome is a sharp pinching/locking in the lower back after rising from a forward bending position.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Low back pain which may radiate into the groin, hip, buttock and leg to above the knee.
- Pain when rising from a forward bending position.
- Low back stiffness especially in the mornings.
- Numbness or a tingling sensation in the leg.
- Pain while coughing and sneezing when acute.