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What Are Facet Joint Injuries?

Facet joints connect the vertebrae of the spine and assist with bending, twisting and extending movements. These joints can become painful due to injury, repetitive strain, poor movement patterns, arthritis or age-related degeneration. Facet joint irritation most commonly affects the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine).

Common Symptoms of Facet Joint Injuries

Symptoms vary between individuals but may include:

✔ Localised neck or back pain

✔ Stiffness following periods of rest

✔ Pain when arching backwards

✔ Pain with twisting movements

✔ Difficulty turning the head

✔ Discomfort after prolonged standing

✔ Reduced spinal mobility

✔ Muscle tightness around the affected area

✔ Pain that worsens after certain activities

✔ Difficulty performing work, exercise or daily tasks

Common Causes of Facet Joint Injuries

Facet joint symptoms may develop due to a variety of factors, including:

✔ Repetitive bending and twisting

✔ Sporting injuries

✔ Workplace injuries

✔ Lifting incidents

✔ Sudden awkward movements

✔ Motor vehicle accidents

✔ Arthritis affecting the spine

✔ Age-related joint changes

✔ Poor posture

✔ Previous spinal injuries

Because symptoms may overlap with disc, muscle or nerve-related conditions, an individual assessment is important before deciding on the most appropriate rehabilitation approach.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Your clinician will discuss your symptoms, medical history, work demands, activities and rehabilitation goals. The assessment may include spinal movement testing, mobility assessment, strength testing, functional assessment and review of imaging reports where available. Certain movements and positions may help identify whether the facet joints are contributing to your symptoms. The goal is to understand how your condition is affecting your movement and function and to develop an appropriate rehabilitation plan.

How Physiotherapy May Help

Physiotherapy may assist with improving movement, reducing stiffness and restoring function. Treatment may include education, mobility exercises, strengthening exercises, postural advice, movement retraining and hands-on treatment where appropriate. The specific approach will depend on your assessment findings and rehabilitation goals.

Related Service: Physiotherapy

Exercise Rehabilitation for Facet Joint Pain

Exercise rehabilitation is often an important part of managing facet joint injuries and reducing the likelihood of recurring episodes. Programs may focus on improving spinal mobility, trunk strength, flexibility, posture, endurance and overall physical conditioning. Exercises are tailored to your individual presentation and progressed according to your recovery.

Related Service: Exercise Physiology

Hydrotherapy for Facet Joint Injuries

Hydrotherapy may be beneficial for some people experiencing facet joint pain. The buoyancy of the water reduces the load through the spine, allowing movement and exercise in a supported environment. Hydrotherapy may help improve mobility, strength, confidence and overall function while minimising stress on painful joints.

Related Service: Hydrotherapy

Spinal Rehabilitation Programs

Some individuals with persistent symptoms or recurring episodes of spinal pain may benefit from a structured spinal rehabilitation program. Rehabilitation may focus on improving movement patterns, restoring strength, increasing activity tolerance, returning to work and developing long-term strategies to support spinal health and function.

Related Service: Spinal Rehabilitation

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

While many facet joint conditions respond well to rehabilitation, some symptoms may require medical assessment. You should seek medical advice if you experience significant trauma, severe or worsening symptoms, loss of strength, significant numbness, changes in bladder or bowel function, unexplained weight loss or symptoms causing significant concern. Your clinician may also recommend further medical review where appropriate.

Why Choose Illawarra Rehabilitation Clinic?

✔ Physiotherapy

✔ Exercise Physiology

✔ Hydrotherapy Pool

✔ Rehabilitation Gym

✔ Spinal Rehabilitation Programs

✔ Work Rehabilitation Services

✔ NDIS Services

✔ Individualised Rehabilitation Plans

✔ Convenient Warilla Location

At Illawarra Rehabilitation Clinic, we provide a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation from our purpose-built facility in Warilla. Our team works with people recovering from injury, managing chronic conditions and improving their ability to work, exercise and stay active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physiotherapy help facet joint pain?

Physiotherapy may help improve spinal mobility, strength and function while supporting your return to normal daily activities.

What causes facet joint pain?

Facet joint pain may result from injury, repetitive movements, arthritis, age-related degeneration, poor posture or excessive loading of the joints.

Is facet joint pain the same as a disc injury?

No. Facet joints and spinal discs are different structures within the spine. However, they can produce similar symptoms, which is why assessment is important.

Is hydrotherapy suitable for facet joint injuries?

Hydrotherapy may be appropriate for some people by providing a low-impact environment for movement and exercise. Suitability is determined following assessment.

Can facet joint pain become a long-term problem?

Some people experience recurrent or persistent symptoms, particularly when arthritis or age-related changes are present. Appropriate rehabilitation may help improve function and support long-term symptom management.