What Is a Facet Joint?
A facet joint is a small paired joint at the back of the spine that connects neighboring vertebrae. Facet joints guide spinal movement, help stabilize each spinal segment, and contain surfaces that allow controlled motion. Irritation or restricted movement in a facet joint may contribute to localized back or neck pain and stiffness.
Quick Facts About Facet Joint
Category
Spinal joint
Used for
Guiding and limiting spinal motion
Common confusion
Often confused with spinal discs
Also called
Zygapophyseal joint
Often discussed with
Back Pain Treatment
Key Takeaways About Facet Joint
- Facet joints sit behind the vertebral bodies.
- Movement assessment helps identify related joint restrictions.
- Facet joints are not the same as spinal discs.
How Facet Joint Works
A facet joint connects the back portions of neighboring vertebrae and helps guide bending, rotation, and extension. Smooth joint surfaces support controlled movement, while surrounding tissues help maintain alignment during activity. Each spinal segment has paired facet joints that work with the disc and other structures.
Related glossary terms: Lumbar Spine, Vertebra, Joint Mobility.
Clinicians consider a facet joint during a movement and pain assessment. They may observe posture, spinal range of motion, and tenderness around the joint region. The lumbar spine contains facet joints that often receive attention during a back pain evaluation, while the sacroiliac joint belongs to the pelvis and has a different structure. Findings from an assessment help distinguish joint-related symptoms from concerns involving muscles, discs, or nerves.
From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor McDonough team
When we assess facet joint involvement, we review spinal movement, posture, and the location of reported discomfort. Our team also considers nearby muscles, discs, and nerves because several structures can produce similar symptoms. We use those findings to guide care within our Back Pain Treatment service.
Facet Joint in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person with back pain may notice more discomfort during standing extension or rotation. During a Back Pain Treatment assessment, we examine movement and nearby tissues to determine whether the facet joint region may be involved.
Related Services
Related Terms
Lumbar Spine
Lumbar Spine is the lower section of the spinal column between the thoracic spine and the…
Vertebra
A vertebra is a single bone in the spinal column that helps support the body, protect…
Joint Mobility
Joint Mobility is the ability of a joint to move through its available range with coordinated…
Referred Pain
Referred Pain is a pain sensation felt in an area that differs from the tissue or…
Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor McDonough
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