Facet Joint Arthritis
Symptoms Of Facet Joint Arthritis
Lower Back Pain
A persistent dull ache or sharp discomfort in the lumbar region, which may result from issues such as muscle strain, degenerative changes or nerve compression.
Referred Pain
Referred pain to pelvis, buttocks or thighs.
Radiating Pain
Radiating pain is characterised by discomfort that extends from the original area along nerve pathways to other regions, often suggesting underlying nerve irritation or compression.
Stiffness In Joints
Stiffness in the joints is common, particularly after periods of inactivity, as degenerative changes and inflammation in the facet joints restrict mobility.
Grinding or Grating Feeling in Joints
This is often due to the wear and tear of cartilage that leads to increased friction between the joint surfaces.
Tenderness On Palpation
Applied pressure to the affected area can elicit discomfort due to underlying inflammation and degenerative changes.
Causes
- Degeneration over time
- Repetitive trauma
- Poor posture
- Spinal infection
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Sprains and strains
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis by a specialist is essential to start the right treatment method and prevent future problems related to the facet joints. To diagnose facet joint arthritis, a doctor will perform a physical examination and ask about all relevant symptoms.
Moreover, the specialist may conduct diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause and recommend treatment accordingly. These tests may include an X-ray, MRI or CT Scan.
Facet Joint Arthritis Treatment In Singapore
Treatment may include physical therapy, medications for pain and inflammation and possibly corticosteroid injections to alleviate joint inflammation. In severe cases, procedures such as radiofrequency ablation or surgical interventions might be considered, based on individual needs.
Conservative Approaches
Physiotherapy (exercises and dry-needling) and medication to control the patient's pain are recommended for suitable cases.
Injections
This can include steriod injections and radiofrequency ablation.
FAQs on Facet Joint Arthritis
Engaging in regular, low-impact exercises may. help strengthen muscles and aid in supporting the spine, enhancing flexibility and reducing stiffness. However, It is important to choose exercises that do not aggravate the joint strain.
Adopting a healthy weight, quitting smoking and following an anti-inflammatory diet may aid in managing symptoms by reducing spinal strain and inflammation.
Surgery might be an option if conservative treatments have been ineffective, the condition has worsened or the condition significantly affects your quality of life. Surgical approaches, such as decompression or fusion, should be discussed based on individual assessments.
Without appropriate management, the condition may worsen, leading to increased pain and reduced mobility. Regular monitoring and adjusting treatment strategies are vital for effective management.
Our Specialist
About Gamaliel Tan
MBBS (S'pore), MMED (S'pore), FAMS (Ortho), FRCS (Edin)Dr Gamaliel Tan is a spine surgeon in Singapore with over 25 years of experience in designing and providing effective solutions for different orthopaedic problems. He specialises in spine surgery and has experience in endoscopic spine surgery and motion preservation spine procedures (artificial disc replacements).
Qualifications and Achievements
- Head of Department, Department of Orthopaedics | NTFGH 2009 - 2018
- Council member of the AOSpine East Asia group 2017 – 2020
- Head of the Spine Division | NTFGH 2009 - 2023
- Group Chief Medical Informatics Officer (GCMIO) | NUHS 2020-2023
Accreditations
Medisave & Insurance
