The pain is caused by irritation and local inflammation of one or more joint facets. The nerve may be involved in its output and create pain that radiates. An injury to the disc of the column may also be present.
The facet syndrome is due to an injury of the cartilage of the facet joint, resulting from excessive movement, particularly in rotation and extension.
This irritation can be caused by different types of incidents:
False movements
Rapid lifting of a load
Fall or trauma
Prolonged poor posture
Work or repetitive activity under unfavorable conditions
Ice (20 minutes / 2 hours), rest and complementary therapies such as neurocryotherapy and kinesio taping are always in order to decrease inflammation and intense pain.
Avoid activities that accentuate pain (hyperextension and rotation.
Once the pain is controlled, vertebral manipulations are the most effective treatment for this type of problem. They help restore movement and decompress the joint.
Working with soft tissues (Active Release Techniques and Graston)
Strengthening the associated musculature.
Stretching of the associated musculature.
Anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants and analgesics as needed
Facet injections can provide some relief but do not solve the basic problem at the joint level.
Surgery, which involves merging two or more vertebrae, is rarely necessary.
Prognosis
Using manipulations and favorable conditions, one can notice a remarkable improvement in 14 days and a remission in 4 to 5 weeks. On the other hand, waiting several weeks before the start of treatment, it may be longer and the patient may have sequelae (slight persistent pain, recurrence, weakness in the neck, etc.).
WARNING ! If you develop numbness or weakness in the upper limb or incontinence problems, consult your doctor immediately.
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