Facet joints are at the back on both sides of the spine. These joints are encapsulated and they contain synovial fluid, while the joint surfaces have covering which is known as hyaline cartilage. The primary function of facet joints are to provide stability to the spine by controlling excessive extension and rotational movements.
However, excessive movements can cause facet joint sprain, which is mainly injury to the joint capsule, resulting in swelling and pain. The injured person will experience muscle spasm that is a reaction to the pain, which can increase the pain and restrict movements. Facet joint syndrome is one of the common causes of back pain. Hence, if you are suddenly having severe back pain, consult Wirth Chiropractic in Greenville, NC, to have your pain correctly diagnosed.
Facet Joint Sprain Symptoms and Causes
A person suffering from facet joint sprain will typically feel pain on one side of the spine, and there can be referred pain felt in the thigh, groin, or buttock, as well. If facet joints in the mid back are sprained then the person might feel pain along the ribs, and if the neck joint is affected, pain can be felt in the arm, shoulder, and neck.
Mostly these sprains are due to minor repetitive injuries that build up until the particular joint can take it no more. Hence, the person might suddenly experience back pain by simply lifting a fallen paper or it can also be due to an awkward movement. Pain in the facet joint can also be caused by fold inside the joint that projects inwards and it is trapped between the surfaces of the joint. Most people have found almost instant relief with expert manipulation by Wirth Chiropractic in Greenville, NC.
This is not something that is going to go away all by itself. You need a chiropractor to work you through this painful problem.
Treatment Options
Chiropractic manipulation is usually considered the best option, as it relieves muscle spasm, and frees the entrapped fold. However, it is important to have your issue properly diagnosed by Wirth Chiropractic in Greenville, NC, as self-treatment or medication can be dangerous. For instance, rest is often advised initially, but you will also need to do certain movements to prevent this stiffness from lasting or becoming more ingrained.
Terrific Solutions
The chiropractor will advise you on what movements to avoid, and the exercises that are most beneficial for your condition. Usually, it takes four to five treatment sessions for a patient suffering from acute facet joint sprain, for the pain to subside. After that chiropractor will prescribe certain core muscle exercises for developing stability and better spinal control.
