What to expect from physiotherapy for facet joint syndrome

The first visit may explore where back or neck pain is felt, which positions aggravate it, and whether symptoms spread into a limb. Your physiotherapist may observe posture, walking, bending, rotation, hip movement, and trunk or limb strength. The aim is to identify modifiable movement and load patterns; a tender spinal joint alone does not establish the whole cause of pain. Treatment can include mobility exercises, graded strengthening, ergonomic advice, and strategies for sitting, lifting, or returning to activity.

Practise the agreed exercises consistently and change only one activity variable at a time when possible. Short walks, position changes, and controlled trunk exercises may be introduced according to your response. Avoid testing the back with sudden heavy loading during a flare, but prolonged bed rest can make movement harder. Tell the therapist about pain that travels, altered sensation, or a change in strength so the programme reflects the full pattern rather than focusing only on the painful spot.

Seek urgent medical help for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, or rapidly worsening weakness in a leg or arm. Prompt assessment is also needed for severe pain after significant trauma, fever with spinal pain, or unexplained feeling of being very unwell. Arrange review if symptoms steadily worsen or fail to respond as expected to the agreed plan.

Ask which positions are suitable during a flare, how to progress strengthening, and whether leg or arm symptoms change the assessment. Ask what improvement should look like in your work, sleep, walking, or sitting.