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Cervical Facet Syndrome Treatment

Woman with hand on back of neck indicating pain

Cervical Facet Syndrome Treatment in New Jersey

The cervical spine in the neck includes many complex structures. It contains joints that we call facets, with two sets of facet joints connected to each vertebra. They also can be referred to as synovial joints because they are filled with fluid to help cushion the bones.

Cervical facets help stabilize the neck. They allow movement, such as twisting, flexing, or extending, but they also limit movement that would cause harm, such as rotating too far one way. Cervical facet syndrome occurs when the cartilage is worn or inflamed, causing neck pain.

NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute diagnoses and treats cervical spine conditions with non-invasive treatments. In addition, we offer minimally invasive spine surgery in New Jersey, with locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, and Holmdel, NJ.

What Causes Cervical Facet Joint Pain?

Several causes contribute to cervical facet syndrome. Neck pain and back pain are widespread conditions in the U.S. population. Almost 55% of facet joint syndrome patients experience pain in the upper part of the spine, or the cervical back and neck region. About 10% of patients with pain in the lower back, or lumbar and sacrum area of the spine, also have problems related to cervical facet arthropathy or other joint diseases.

This is because arthritis, compression, injury, or other causes can affect the facet joints. When they become inflamed or irritated, this causes pain. Here are some other common causes and risk factors related to cervical facet syndrome:

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Facet Syndrome?

While each patient is individual, there are some symptoms commonly experienced by those with cervical facet syndrome. Many patients experience multiple symptoms, but rarely all of these:

  • Pain when twisting or bending
  • Hurt and pain that radiates into the shoulders, cervical spine, and the mid-back or thoracic area
  • Tenderness in the neck area and upper torso
  • Limitations when extending or rotating the neck and shoulders
  • Severe headaches

While these symptoms can lead to a diagnosis of cervical facet syndrome, they may indicate a different or overlapping spinal condition. NU-Spine highly recommends that you schedule a visit with a neurosurgeon for an accurate diagnosis. Our founder and lead spinal surgeon, Branko Skovrlj, MD, specializes in complex spinal diagnoses and procedures.

Related or overlapping spinal conditions causing neck and back pain may include:

How Do Doctors Diagnose This Condition?

The medical team at NU-Spine will work with the patient’s neurosurgeon to perform a thorough examination of the neck, shoulder, and upper back. NU-Spine aims to examine the location where a patient feels pain and performs tests to help identify spinal conditions. Careful documentation of the range of motion and any limitations is an important element of the examination, as well.

The NU-Spine team also reviews the patient’s medical history and takes the time to inquire about any new information. Patients should make sure their neurosurgeon understands any chronic conditions, diseases, or illnesses, such as diabetes or hypertension. Other disease processes can interfere with some options for treating cervical facet syndrome.

Imaging tests also can be used to diagnose cervical facet syndrome, including the following:

  • X-rays
  • Computed tomography (CT) scans
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Bone density test

Another way the medical team at NU-Spine can determine the presence of cervical facet syndrome is by using injections. An injection of medicated steroid solution is introduced into or near the nerves that run through the facet joints. If the patient experiences relief from painful symptoms, this can be another confirmation of cervical facet syndrome.

What Cervical Facet Syndrome Treatment Works?

Just as cervical facet syndrome may progress from many different causes, each case is different. The medical team at NU-Spine uses careful planning and examinations to create individualized treatment options for each patient. Treatments are targeted to the current progress of the syndrome and the patient’s experience of pain.

Initial treatments usually are non-invasive and include a variety of options, such as:

  • At-Home Remedies: Often, patients can achieve relief from pain by using simple techniques, such as icing and applying heat to the area. Physicians also may recommend rest to allow the body to rejuvenate damaged tissues and structures.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: A course of these powerful, over-the-counter drugs, as directed by doctors, also can help restore function and reduce pain. Inflammation can put pressure on areas and interfere with movement. With proper use of anti-inflammatory medications, the accumulation of fluid and puffiness around the internal structure can be reduced. These medications also allow the area to heal easily and properly. Muscle relaxers, weight loss, and massage therapy also may be prescribed.
  • Physical Therapy: During physical therapy, highly trained medical practitioners assign stretches and strength-building exercises, helping to reduce pressure on the affected area of the cervical spine. Physical therapy exercises also may help better align the body and spine. Strengthening the muscles in the neck and shoulders and improving the range of motion can reduce the pain.
  • Cervical Facet Injections: Steroids can help reduce inflammation and pain. Cervical facet injections can be used to help diagnose and treat cervical facet syndrome. These injections can help calm the area and interrupt pain cycles. When the body is relieved of reacting to pain, it can better gain the benefits of rest and relaxation.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This treatment uses heat for pain management. Radio waves are introduced with precision to interrupt the pain signals. Radiofrequency ablation can greatly benefit patients whose pain has not been resolved through other methods.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: This treatment method uses the patient’s own blood and a combination of plasma, platelets, growth factors, and other medicinal elements. These substances are then injected into the affected area. Platelet-rich plasma injections can stimulate healing and repair. The patient may receive several injections during the treatment period.

Advanced Spine Surgeries in New Jersey

NU-Spine offers state-of-the-art surgeries for repairing spinal conditions. When non-invasive techniques do not provide relief from pain, the following spine procedures can help reduce the symptoms of cervical facet syndrome:

  • Spinal Fusion: With minimally invasive spinal fusion, two or more vertebrae are joined together permanently.
  • Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF): With minimally invasive TLIF, an intervertebral disc is removed, and two or more of the spinal bones are fused.
  • XLIF/X-LIF Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion: With minimally invasive XLIF, neurosurgeons approach the spinal condition from the side of the body. This technique can be used to reduce bleeding, nerve damage, and recovery time.

Find Spine Condition Treatment at NU-Spine

Dr. Skovrlj and the medical team at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute can help patients reduce the pain of cervical facet syndrome. Using a variety of nonsurgical spine treatments and minimally invasive surgical procedures, we help patients relieve back pain and attain the best quality of life possible. For an initial consultation, or to visit one of our locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, and Holmdel, NJ, contact us today.

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Paramus, NJ 07652

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3. Woodbridge
573 Amboy Ave.
Woodbridge Township,
NJ 07095

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5. Toms River
1901 Hooper Ave. #B
Toms River, NJ 08753

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Jersey City, NJ 07304

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Holmdel, NJ 07733

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