Cervical Facet Joint Pain Treatment in Mona Vale
Neck pain that feels localised to one side, is aggravated by certain movements, or refers into the shoulder or upper back may involve the cervical facet joints.
At Helix Recovery in Mona Vale, we assess neck pain to identify the structures and contributing factors that may be involved, before developing an individual treatment and rehabilitation plan.
What is Cervical Facet Joint Pain?
The cervical facet joints are small joints located at the back of the neck, connecting adjacent vertebrae and helping guide movement of the cervical spine.
Like other joints in the body, these joints can become painful or sensitive following injury, repetitive loading or age-related changes. Facet joint pain is often felt locally in the neck but may also refer into the back of the head, shoulder or upper back.
Because several structures in the neck can produce similar symptoms, assessment is important to determine whether the facet joints are likely to be contributing to your pain.
Common Symptoms
Localised pain on one or both sides of the neck
Neck stiffness or reduced range of motion
Pain with turning or extending the neck
Pain referring into the shoulder or upper back
Pain extending towards the base or back of the head
Tenderness around the affected area
Symptoms aggravated by prolonged positions or particular movements
How We Assess Cervical Facet Joint Pain
Neck pain can arise from several different structures, and imaging findings don't always explain a person's symptoms.
Your assessment may include neck movement, joint and muscle testing, neurological screening and examination of the shoulder and upper back where relevant.
The aim is to determine the likely source of your symptoms and identify factors that can be addressed during treatment and rehabilitation.
How We Treat Cervical Facet Joint Pain
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Gentle joint mobilisation and manipulation where appropriate
Progressive exercise rehabilitation
Neck mobility exercises
Neck and upper-back strengthening
Activity and load modification
Gradual return to work, gym or sport
Common Questions
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It commonly causes localised neck pain and stiffness, often on one side. Pain may be aggravated by turning or extending the neck and can sometimes refer into the shoulder, upper back or head.
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Facet joints can become painful following injury, repetitive or sustained loading, or age-related changes in the cervical spine.
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Imaging is not routinely required for uncomplicated neck pain. Structural changes are common on scans and don't always explain a person's symptoms. Imaging may be recommended if your history or examination indicates it is necessary.
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Yes. Management commonly involves staying active, gradually restoring comfortable movement and building the strength and capacity of the neck and surrounding muscles. Manual therapy may also be used to help manage pain and improve movement.
Persistent Neck Pain?
If neck pain or stiffness is limiting your movement, work, training or everyday activities, a thorough assessment can help determine what may be contributing to your symptoms and what to do next.