What is facet syndrome?
The intervertebral joints (facet joints) are in direct contact with the nerve root as it exits the spinal cord. When the facet joint gets irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain in the distribution of the exit nerve. Pain in the sciatic nerve is called sciatica. Facet syndrome can also happen in the neck and lead to thoracic outlet syndrome and many other syndromes.
What causes Facet Syndrome
Facet Syndrome can be caused by repetitive strain injuries, overuse, postural alterations, trauma such as whiplash, motor vehicle accidents, heavy labour, sports injuries or broken bones.
Physical Labour
Every movement involving the spine will require the facet joints to move. When these joints do not move properly, then can become inflamed and irritated. This can cause pain in the structure itself, and it can cause pain in the distribution of the exit nerve.
Slips and falls
These are only some examples of the types of behaviours that may cause facet syndrome. Many other activities of daily living can also cause small injuries over a period of time. These are normally not noticed until a significant amount of damage is done, much like heart disease or cancer.
Treatment for Facet Syndrome
Chiropractors are experts in the movement and finction of the spine. When a diagnosis of facet syndrome is given, chiropractic care is the treatment of choice. The purpose of a chiropractic adjustment is to restore proper movement in the vertebral complex to restore nervous system function.
A chiropractic adjustment can be delivered in many ways depending the patient and the practitioner. Many different types of treatment can be used including, manual treatment, drop table or instrument adjusting.
The Blackburn Chiropractic Clinic prides itself on performing a thogough examination to determine the cause of the issue and render appropriate treatment or referral as needed. This base contributes to our high level of success.