When to worry about lower back pain with facet joint syndrome

Facet joints connect the small bones at the back of the spine and help guide movement. Irritation in the lower spine can cause pain close to the back, stiffness after rest, and discomfort with extension, twisting, or prolonged standing. Most people with Facet Joint Syndrome notice lower back pain, but the pattern can overlap with other causes. Pain into a leg, pins and needles, or weakness needs separate assessment.

Change position often and keep walking or moving gently if this does not increase symptoms. Temporarily reduce repeated back extension, twisting, and heavy lifting. Heat or another comfort measure may help some people. A physiotherapist can work on trunk and hip strength, movement control, and a gradual return to activities. Keep track of positions that trigger pain rather than avoiding all movement.

Arrange a clinical review if pain persists, repeatedly interrupts sleep, restricts walking, or is not improving with sensible activity changes. Seek urgent care for new bladder or bowel control problems, numbness around the groin, new leg weakness, fever with back pain, or pain after a serious fall or collision. Rapid progression or unexplained weight change also warrants prompt assessment.

Ask how the examination distinguishes facet pain from nerve or disc problems, which movements to practise, and what should be avoided temporarily. Ask when to return if symptoms change and whether physiotherapy or another treatment fits your findings.