Facet Joints (or Zygapophyseal Joints) 

The facet joints are also termed zygapophyseal joints. Each vertebral body has four facet joints that work like hinges. These are the articulating (moving) joints of the spine that enable extension, flexion, and rotation. Like other joints, the bony articulating surfaces are coated with cartilage. Cartilage is a special type of connective tissue that provides a self-lubricating and low-friction gliding surface. Facet joint degeneration causes loss of cartilage and formation of osteophytes (eg, bone spurs). These changes may cause hypertrophy or osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease.

There are numerous mechanical causes of back pain including:

• Spondylosis : (Osteo-Arthritis) : Spinal disease, associated with degenerative discs.

• Facet Joints (or Zygapophyseal Joints) : Each vertebral body has four facet joints.

• Bones and Ligaments Osteophytes : Bone spurs affecting blood supply to the vertebra.

• Spondylosis Symptoms : Spondylosis may affect cervical (neck) or lower (lumbar) spine.

• Spondylolisthesis : Spondylolysis with a forward translation of the vertebra.

• Back Strain or Back Sprain : Pulled back muscles, caused by overloading or overuse.

• Sciatica: Travelling back, buttock & leg pain, tingling, numbness or weakness.

• Spinal Stenosis : Narrowing of the spinal canal, causing pressure on the spinal cord.

• Herniated Discs : Slipped discs occur when a spinal disc splits or ruptures.