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Facet Syndrome in Bradenton, FL

The facet joints connect the vertebrae together and allow for articulation between the vertebrae. There are four facet joints on each vertebrae; Two that articulate with the vertebrae above and two that articulate with the vertebra below. Irritation of these joints can cause pain. If the irritated joint is in the neck, then pain in the neck, shoulders and/or head can result. If the irritated joint is in the lower back, then low back pain, pain in the buttocks and the thighs can result.

There are a number of reasons why the fact joint can become irritated. Trauma, specifically whiplash can overstretch and tear the joint capsule and/or the cartilage covering the joint The joint can become misaligned or subluxated. This is a very common cause of Facet Syndrome. The vertebra above can slip backwards and down on the vertebra below. This can irritate the joint capsule, the tiny nerves that supply the joint and even the spinal nerves as they pass by the facet joint can be irritated. Osteoarthritis of the facet joint can also result in degeneration of the joint as well as bone spurs which can irritate the nerves. When this occurs, it can cause Stenosis which is a narrowing of the spinal canal and this can place pressure directly on the spinal cord or spinal nerves.

Physiotherapy is effective at reducing the inflammation and chiropractic adjustments are necessary to correct the subluxation and allow for normal positioning of the joint. Dr. Schwartz uses Cox Distraction Vertebral Axial Decompression (VAX-D) and Diversified chiropractic procedures to realign the joints. They are all painless procedures and usually relieve the pain within a handful of treatments.