The Basics of Facet Syndrome

James Kevin Kaufman, MD is a neurological/complex spine surgeon in Hurst, Texas, who has been with Surgical Consultants of America since 2018. Daily, James Kevin Kaufman, MD, addresses a range of clinical diseases and disorders including facet syndrome.

The human spine consists of three sections: the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. Each of these segments contains two facet joints that connect the vertebrae and facilitate movement of the back. Facet syndrome occurs when inflammation in these joints causes stiffness or pain.

Often caused by trauma or wear, facet syndrome can stem from incidents that range from a single whiplash neck injury to prolonged abnormal body positioning. Even in the absence of trauma, the gradual deterioration of age produces changes in the spine that can place significant stress and strain on facet joints.

Individuals with facet syndrome tend to experience more discomfort after maintaining a single position for a prolonged period. Ongoing physical movement may lessen this discomfort, but a severe extension of the body or limbs may prove extremely painful.