What does a facet joint injury feel like?
The pain is often a diffuse, dull ache in the low back directly over the spine that can spread to the buttocks. In the neck it can be felt in the shoulders and back of the skull. Movements such as bending backwards or twisting sideways towards the affected joint will cause pain.
Do facet joint injuries heal?
How long does it take to heal a facet joint? As with any injuries healing times can change depending on numerous factors, such as age, weight, work and ability to avoid/manage aggravating activities. But typically, an acute sprain can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks if managed and treated correctly.
How do you treat a facet joint injury?
Nonsurgical Treatments for Lumbar Facet Joint Pain
- Applying heat therapy.
- Using a cold pack.
- Supporting the lumbar curve.
- Avoiding activities that worsen the pain.
- Staying active.
- Engaging in low-impact exercises.
- Using a supportive brace.
What happens if some of the facets are damaged?
The effects of aging and/or traumatic injury can damage the facet joints and is the leading cause of back pain known as facet joint syndrome. The cervical, thoracic and lumbar facet joints allow your neck and back to bend forward and backward and are a common source of spine-related pain. Photo Source: Shutterstock.
How long does it take to heal a facet joint injury?
If the sprain is severe it can take several weeks to subside. The healing time for a damaged ligament or joint capsule is 2-6 weeks.
Can facet joints heal themselves?
Facet pain lasting longer than 2 weeks usually will not go away on its own and requires treatment.
How long does a facet joint injury take to heal?
Prognosis of a facet joint sprain With ideal treatment, patients may be pain free in as little as several days, although typically this may take 2 – 3 weeks. It is important to note, however, that injured tissue takes approximately six weeks to restore the majority of its strength in ideal healing conditions.
Can you sprain a facet joint?
Facet joint sprain can be caused by a quick, sudden movement when reaching over or sustaining an awkward back position for too long eg falling asleep on the couch. The joints in your back that join one vertebrae to another one below, called facet joints, stiffen and cause the surrounding muscles to go into spasm.