What it can mean
Facet joints are small joints at the back of the spine. Arthritis or joint irritation may contribute to neck or back pain. Symptoms and examination findings alone cannot reliably confirm a facet pain diagnosis.
How it is evaluated
Selected medial branch nerve blocks can help test whether the facet joints contribute to pain. Your clinician reviews the amount and duration of relief together with your activity during the test.
How care is planned
Radiofrequency ablation may be considered after an appropriate diagnostic response. Rehabilitation and other contributors to pain remain part of the plan.
Your diagnosis depends on an individual evaluation. Several pain sources can overlap.
Related treatment guideFurther reading: Johns Hopkins Spine Center