Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons people seek medical care—but did you know that sometimes the source of this pain lies within the small joints of your spine? These joints, called facet joints, allow your spine to bend, twist, and stay stable. When they become irritated or worn down, the result is a condition known as facet syndrome.

At California Sports & Spine Institute (CSSI), we specialize in identifying the true source of pain so patients can get relief that lasts. Let’s take a closer look at facet syndrome and how it’s treated.

What Are Facet Joints?

Facet joints are small joints located between each pair of vertebrae in your spine. They work together with spinal discs to support movement and prevent excessive twisting or bending. Like other joints in your body, facet joints are lined with cartilage and surrounded by a capsule of fluid that helps them glide smoothly.

When these joints become inflamed, injured, or degenerate over time, they can cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement—a condition referred to as facet syndrome.

Symptoms of Facet Syndrome

Facet syndrome symptoms vary depending on whether the affected joints are in the neck (cervical spine), mid-back (thoracic spine), or lower back (lumbar spine). Common signs include:

Localized pain in the neck or back

Stiffness and reduced range of motion, especially in the morning

Pain that worsens with twisting, bending, or prolonged standing

Referred pain into the shoulders, buttocks, or thighs

Headaches (if the cervical spine is involved)

Because facet syndrome can mimic other spinal conditions like herniated discs, proper diagnosis is essential.

Diagnosing Facet Syndrome

At CSSI, we use a combination of patient history, physical exams, and advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the source of pain. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be used to evaluate changes in the facet joints. In some cases, diagnostic facet joint injections are performed to confirm that the joint is the source of discomfort.

Treatment Options for Facet Syndrome

The good news is that there are many effective treatments available. Depending on the severity of symptoms, treatment may include:

Physical therapy and lifestyle modifications – Strengthening core muscles and improving posture can reduce strain on the joints.

Medications – Anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants may ease pain and stiffness.

Facet joint injections – Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and provide targeted relief.

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) – A minimally invasive procedure that interrupts pain signals from the affected nerves for longer-lasting relief.

Regenerative medicine – PRP or stem cell therapy may be considered to promote joint healing and reduce pain naturally.

Find Relief From Spinal Joint Pain

If you’re struggling with ongoing back or neck pain, don’t let facet syndrome hold you back from living life to the fullest. At California Sports & Spine Institute, Dr. Maxim Moradian and his team provide advanced, minimally invasive solutions tailored to your needs.

We proudly serve patients at three convenient locations:

📍 Arcadia – 51 N. 5th Ave Suite B, Arcadia, CA 91006

📍 Glendale – 317 S Brand Blvd Suite A-104, Glendale, CA 91204

📍 Palmdale – 41210 11th Street West, Suite K, Palmdale, CA 93551

📞 Call us today at (818) 338-6860 or (626) 460-1096 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.