Lumbar Facet Syndrome

By Dr. Richard L. Cole, DC, DACNB, DAAPM, FICC

DIAGNOSIS: 

Your doctor has performed a thorough evaluation of your back and has determined that you have what is called lumbar facet syndrome.  Your condition is caused by an injury to the joints of your lower back.  These joints are very similar to your finger joints and are about the same size.  Injury to these joints may be from a sudden trauma such as during a sporting event, a fall, or an automobile accident, or it may be from long term posture problems in which the joints have taken a lot of stress due to repeated improper lifting.  Weak posture muscles or spine curvatures.  You may be experiencing one or more of the following symptoms: low back pain, pain radiating to other areas including the hips, thighs, and legs.  This is called referred pain and will usually be on the same side of the effected joint.   Bending your back backwards and to the side is painful and should be avoided.  Also, standing too long is often very painful and aggravates the condition.  Your doctor is aware of other causes of leg pain and back pain, which may include disc problems, phlebitis and muscle injuries.  He/she may want to order special testing to help rule these out.  If the doctor finds that your condition is not treatable with chiropractic care or not responding properly, he/she will refer you to the proper health care practitioner. 

TREATMENT:

Your doctor may be using spinal manipulative therapy, better known as adjustments, to correct the spinal abnormalities and deformities that cause the pain in the first place.  The doctor may utilize physical therapies in the.  In the early stages of your condition, you will need to use ice at home to reduce the swelling and pain and rest your lower back in the lying position.  Also of great importance are exercises and stretches you will need to do at home.  When you are ready for them, your doctor will inform you of which ones you are to do.  There are certain things you need to avoid and they are: no prolonged standing and walking, never sleep on your stomach, and never lift with your back in an arched posture.  Other things that will help you get well sooner include using a pillow between your knees when sleeping on your side or sleep on your back with a rolled up blanket under your knees.  Also, keep your back in a flat rigid position when lifting.  Use your legs for your power Exercise your abdominal muscles as your doctor shows you.  Remember when you are over this back injury, regular spinal check-ups by your chiropractor are the best way to prevent future episodes of back pain.  Keeping the spinal vertebrae in proper keeps everything in good working order. 

If you have any questions regarding your condition, please, do not hesitate to ask your doctor.  He wants you to understand your condition and understand your road to recovery.