Lumbar facet syndrome occurs when the facet joints in the lower back (lumbosacral spine) become worn or irritated. These joints connect the vertebrae and help stabilize the spine while allowing movement.
Over time, degeneration of these joints can lead to inflammation, instability, and pain. In some cases, small fluid-filled cysts may form and press on nearby nerves, causing radiating pain.
Common symptoms of lumbar facet syndrome include:
Pain is often worse with certain movements that place stress on the facet joints.
Lumbar facet syndrome is usually caused by degeneration or stress on the lower spine.
Common causes include:
These factors can lead to joint damage and inflammation.
Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical examination. A doctor may perform movements such as leaning backward or twisting to reproduce pain.
Imaging tests may include:
To confirm the diagnosis, a medial branch block may be performed. This involves injecting a local anesthetic near the nerves supplying the facet joint. Pain relief after the injection suggests the facet joint is the source of symptoms.
If symptoms persist, interventional treatments may include:
Surgery may be considered when other treatments fail, especially if nerve compression is present.
If symptoms persist despite conservative care, surgical intervention may be considered. Minimally invasive procedures may be used to decompress an irritated nerve or stabilize the affected disc. Surgery is typically reserved for severe or persistent cases.
