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Facet Arthritis Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Does facet arthritis lead to disc problems?

Typically when degenerative conditions that affect the facet joint are present, the intervertebral disc is usually affected as well. There is uncertainty as to whether the disc starts to degenerate first causing the facet joint to “wear-out”, or vice versa. But, they are typically seen together. The space between the motion segment vertebrae begins to collapse. This can also cause the vertebra to tilt to one side (scoliosis), or, shift out of position (spondylolisthesis) causing the facet joint to sublux or partially dislocate further injuring the joint capsule. This degenerative cascade continues until spontaneous stabilization occurs and the joint naturally fuses together. Further, this process usually occurs at multiple levels and multiple areas of the spine. In general, what happens in the lumbar spine also occurs in the cervical spine or neck as well.

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