What is Facet Joint Syndrome?

Facet Joint Syndrome (spondylarthrosis) is a degenerative disease of the intervertebral (facet) joints accompanied by chronic back pain. Each vertebra is connected to its neighboring vertebra through two facet joints — these are precisely what provide stability and controlled mobility of the spine.

According to research, Facet Joint Syndrome is the cause of 15-45% of all cases of chronic lower back pain and up to 55% of chronic neck pain. It is one of the most underestimated causes of back pain — often masquerading as a herniated disc or sciatica.

Causes of development:

  • Cartilage degeneration — thinning and destruction of articular cartilage with age
  • Joint overload — when disc height decreases, load on facet joints increases by 30-70%
  • Inflammation — chronic synovitis with joint capsule swelling
  • Osteophytes — bone spurs that limit mobility
  • Capsular hypertrophy — thickening of the joint capsule that narrows the spinal canal

Facts About Facet Joint Syndrome

  • ICD-10: M47.8
  • Frequency: 15-45% of chronic lower back pain
  • In cervical spine: up to 55% of chronic pain
  • Age: more common after age 40
  • Association: in 70% of cases accompanies disc degeneration

Symptoms of Facet Joint Syndrome

Lumbar Spine

  • Dull, aching lower back pain
  • Worsening with extension and rotation
  • Pain radiating to buttocks and thighs
  • Morning stiffness (15-30 minutes)
  • Relief with forward bending
  • Inability to stand for long periods

Cervical Spine

  • Neck pain with radiation to shoulders and shoulder blades
  • Limited head rotation
  • Occipital headaches
  • Crepitus with neck movements
  • Paravertebral muscle tension

Differences from disc herniation

  • Pain worsens with extension (with herniation — with flexion)
  • No typical sciatica (pain along the nerve into the leg)
  • Pain is more localized, without clear radiation
  • Muscle spasm — leading symptom
  • Often combined with disc degeneration

Comparison of treatment methods

Criterion Steroid blockades Radiofrequency denervation Regenerative treatment
Principle Suppression of inflammation with steroids Destruction of joint nerve Regeneration of cartilage and joint capsule
Duration of effect 2-8 weeks 6-12 months (nerve regenerates) Years (structural regeneration)
Is the joint restored? ❌ No — only inflammation relief ❌ No — nerve destroyed, joint continues to deteriorate ✅ Yes — regeneration of cartilage and capsule
Repeat procedures Every 2-4 weeks Every 6-12 months Usually not required
Side effects Osteoporosis, tissue atrophy (steroids) Sensory loss, muscle weakness Minimal — own cells

How regenerative treatment treats Facet Joint Syndrome

01

Diagnosis of affected joints

MRI and CT are analyzed by the Navigation system system. All affected facet joints are identified, along with the degree of osteoarthritis, presence of associated disc degeneration and stenosis. A treatment plan is created for each joint.

02

Obtaining regenerative concentrates

From blood — CGF with cartilage growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines. From adipose tissue — MFAT with mesenchymal stem cells capable of differentiating into chondrocytes.

03

Intra-articular injection

Under navigational control, concentrates are injected directly into the cavity of each affected facet joint. Surrounding tissues are simultaneously treated — capsule, ligaments, paravertebral muscles. With associated disc degeneration — also injected into the discs.

04

Joint regeneration

Stem cells restore the cartilage covering of joint surfaces, reduce inflammation of the synovial membrane, normalize synovial fluid production. Result — restoration of joint function without their destruction.

Why regenerative treatment is better than denervation

Radiofrequency denervation (rhizotomy) is the most popular treatment for Facet Joint Syndrome. But its principle is paradoxical: destroy the nerve so the patient doesn't feel pain. The joint continues to deteriorate, the patient just doesn't notice it. After 6-12 months, the nerve regenerates, pain returns, requiring repeat procedure.

Regenerative treatment works differently:

  1. Cartilage restoration — stem cells differentiate into chondrocytes and synthesize new cartilage on joint surfaces
  2. Inflammation reduction — anti-inflammatory cytokines suppress chronic synovitis without steroids
  3. Normalization of synovial fluid — improved lubrication and joint nutrition
  4. Capsule strengthening — growth factors strengthen the stretched joint capsule

Result: the joint not only stops hurting — it restores its structure and function. Nerves remain intact, sensation is preserved, mobility is restored.

Regenerative treatment vs Denervation

  • Denervation: destroys the nerve → joint continues to deteriorate
  • Regenerative treatment: restores the joint → pain resolves naturally
  • Denervation: repeat every 6-12 months
  • Regenerative treatment: typically 1 procedure

Regenerative method Advantages

A broad range of indications

Regenerative methods are used for many orthopaedic and spinal conditions. Some cases still call for surgery.

No anesthesia or incisions

Outpatient treatment via 0.3-1.5 mm puncture. No general anesthesia or hospitalization.

No age restrictions

Regeneration at any age. Safe for chronic conditions and anesthesia intolerance.

Rapid improvement

Concentrates have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Relief within days.

Multiple zones at once

Simultaneous treatment of multiple discs or joints in one procedure.

Home the same day

No crutches, braces or rehabilitation needed. MRI follow-up at 8-16 weeks.

Regenerative treatment Technology

Navigation system for minimally invasive access

Navigation system

Intraoperative robotic navigation system. Provides precise access to deep structures with 1 mm and 1 degree accuracy.

Ultrasound guidance during the procedure

Ultrasound guidance

Device for intervention under sonographic control. Eliminates open surgeries with real-time visual monitoring.

More about technologies →

Frequently Asked Questions About Facet Joint Syndrome Treatment

Can facet joints be restored?
Yes. Regenerative treatment delivers stem cells and growth factors directly into the facet joint cavity, triggering cartilage regeneration, reducing inflammation, and restoring normal function. This is confirmed by clinical improvement and follow-up MRI imaging.
How many joints can be treated in one procedure?
In one regenerative procedure, all affected facet joints can be treated — from the cervical to the lumbar spine. Discs (if degeneration is present) and other damaged structures are treated simultaneously. This comprehensive approach is not possible with injections or denervation.
How quickly does pain resolve?
The anti-inflammatory effect appears within the first few days — swelling decreases, muscle spasm subsides, and pain weakens. Cartilage regeneration takes 3-6 months with progressive improvement. Unlike injections, the regenerative treatment effect increases over time.
Are repeat procedures necessary?
Typically, one regenerative procedure is sufficient. Unlike injections (every 2-4 weeks) and denervation (every 6-12 months), regenerative treatment provides long-lasting results through true joint regeneration. In cases of severe degenerative changes, a repeat procedure may be needed after 6-12 months.
Can facet joint syndrome and disc herniation be treated simultaneously?
Yes, and this is one of the key advantages of regenerative treatment. Facet joint syndrome is combined with disc degeneration in 70% of cases. In one procedure, both joints and discs, as well as surrounding tissues, are treated. This comprehensive approach delivers better results than treating each problem separately.

Other conditions: Spine

Herniated DiscSpinal StenosisOsteochondrosisSpondylolisthesisSciaticaFailed Back Surgery SyndromeDisc ProtrusionRadiculopathyLumbagoSacroiliitis (SI Joint)Piriformis Syndrome

Also treated with regenerative methods

Hip ArthritisAvascular NecrosisLabral TearHip Impingement
All treatment areas: Hip JointKnee JointShoulder JointHand & WristFoot & Ankle
Treatment Compare Methods Cost

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