What is the first treatment for facet joint syndrome?

Facet joints are small joints at the back of the spine. Irritation there may cause local neck or back pain and stiffness, often aggravated by certain positions or extension. Similar symptoms can come from other spinal structures, so an examination helps guide the diagnosis.

Early care aims to keep you active without provoking the joint. A plan may include temporary activity changes, suitable pain relief, posture advice and Physiotherapy to improve trunk or neck control, mobility and strength.

Record which positions trigger pain, whether symptoms travel into an arm or leg, and whether weakness or altered sensation is present. Avoid prolonged bed rest and build activity gradually within tolerable limits. If symptoms continue despite a structured plan, a specialist may consider Facet Joint Injection for diagnosis or symptom relief.

Radiofrequency Ablation may be discussed in selected persistent cases after assessment. It is not an automatic next step and depends on the clinical pattern and response to earlier care.

Seek urgent care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, rapidly worsening leg or arm weakness, fever with severe spinal pain, or pain after major trauma. These features require prompt assessment for conditions beyond facet joint irritation.

Ask which movements should be modified, what exercise progression fits your symptoms, whether an injection would clarify the pain source, and what neurological changes need urgent review.