What Is Facet Joint Osteoarthritis?
Most often, you hear of hip osteoarthritis or knee osteoarthritis. However, other joints are common sites of osteoarthritis as well. For example, facet joint osteoarthritis causes pain, stiffness, and lost motion in the back. Where Are Your Facet Joints? The facet joints are located on the back of the spine. Between each pair of vertebrae, there are two facet joints (one on each side of the spine). A facet joint is comprised of two bony knobs. Where the knobs come together, they connect two vertebrae. The surfaces of the facet joints are covered by articular cartilage. What Causes Facet Joint Osteoarthritis? Facet joint osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of the articular cartilage. Previous fractures and injuries can cause facet joint ost
