Facet's Syndrome

QUESTION: Could you please explain what facet syndrome is? Also, what is the
correct pronunciation of it? I suspect that this particular condition may be
the reason for my pain and problems and would like to discuss it with my
physician in an intelligent manner.
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ANSWER: You display a commendable attitude and I am pleased to help. Facet's
syndrome (it's pronounced "fasets") is often the diagnosis that explains the
reason for patient complaints of pains which originate in the vertebral column
and which sometimes are aggravated by standing or sitting in certain postures.
Muscle spasm may be present, and both sides of the body can be involved at the
same time.
Actually, it's a type of arthritic process which involves a small area on
the surface of a vertebra (a facet) where one bone in the spinal column
connects (articulates) with the vertebra above or below it. Usually, the
diagnosis can be made by taking x-rays of the spine from different angles.
These x-rays often show a degeneration of the cartilage within the joint, and
a displacement of one bone in relationship to the other. The result is a
spasm of the muscles, and a closing of the space through which the nerves from
the spinal cord pass out to the rest of the body. And it is this compression
of the nerve that causes some of the pain you are experiencing.
Often the pain can be relieved with rest and analgesic medication.
Physical therapy can be very helpful in getting you over some of the difficult
times when pain is great, and which, unfortunately, may return from time to
time. It is only the rare case that requires surgery, consisting of removing
the facets, or bone graft and fusion of the joint.