Facet Syndrome

Intervertebral discs and vertebral joints (facets) together form the spinal column. Damages in the vertebral joints can also cause back pain. In this case we speak of the so-called facet syndrome.

Individual vertebral stages can lose height due to wear and deterioration. Pain occurs due to irritation of the protruding nerve roots or the wing-like outgrowths of the vertebral bodies. The cause of facet syndrome can also be previous operations or prolapses in the intervertebral discs. Then if the functionality of the intervertebral discs is reduced, the burdening of the vertebral joints increases.

Symptoms: Often patients complain of local pains in a limited area of the loin, chest or neck vertebrae. The X-rays show arthrosis of the vertebral joints, the MRT shows arthrosis and displays the anatomic alterations.

Therapy: In addition to conservative methods, the pain caused by facet syndrome can also be treated by means of a minimally invasive treatment with cold probe or laser. Other methods are seldom considered.