Neck
Facet Joint Injury
The spinal facet joints are located on the left and right of the spine. They are synovial joints (meaning they have a self lubricating lining), and their role is to guide and limit movement of the spine.
Symptoms
Facet Joint injuries are characterised by localised pain, muscle spasm and limitation of movement, usually to one side of the spine. They are generally aggravated by leaning backwards into extension or side-bending in the direction of the pain.
Causes
The joint is commonly injured by loading of the spine whilst in a poor posture, e.g. sitting at a desk with chin forward posture, sleeping awkwardly. Sudden traumatic loading as in a whiplash injury also commonly injures the joint.
Prevention
The key to maintaining healthy facet joints is to maintain good spinal mobility, strength/stability, and a good posture.
