Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Facet Joint Pain
What is lower back facet joint pain?
The spine is made up of 33 vertebrae, separated by discs that act as shock absorbers and allow flexibility in movement. Each vertebra also has two pairs of facet joints, which further enhance spinal mobility. When these facet joints become damaged in the lower back, it can lead to lower back facet joint pain. Physiotherapy is a highly effective treatment for managing and relieving this condition.
How does lower back facet joint pain happen?
There are several causes of lower back facet joint pain, with wear and tear of the facet joints being the most common. This degeneration, known as spondylosis or osteoarthritis, often occurs due to ageing or as a result of a previous injury to the facet joint. When the facet joints are damaged, the body may produce extra bony growths (osteophytes) on the joint surface in an attempt to repair the damage. These osteophytes can lead to stiffness in the lumbar spine and, in some cases, press on nearby nerves, causing additional symptoms.
What are the symptoms of lower back facet joint pain?
Pain and stiffness are common symptoms of lower back facet joint pain. When osteophytes irritate nearby nerves, they can also cause neurological issues such as pins and needles, numbness, and weakness in the buttocks and legs. Stiffness is often worse in the mornings, and it may take some time before it eases enough for you to comfortably continue your normal daily activities.
- Pain and stiffness in the lower back
- Neurological symptoms (if nerves are irritated by osteophytes)
- Increased stiffness in the mornings
- Delay in resuming normal daily activities until stiffness eases
What should I do if I have lower back facet joint pain?
If you experience symptoms of lower back facet joint pain, it is important to see your GP promptly for an accurate diagnosis. This may include an X-ray to assess the extent of damage in the lumbar spine. For less severe cases, your GP may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication to help reduce pain and inflammation. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, starting a tailored physiotherapy programme as soon as possible will help optimise your recovery.
What shouldn’t I do if I have lower back facet joint pain?
Try to avoid positions that place unnecessary strain on the ligaments, joints, and muscles of the lower back. This includes prolonged standing or sitting, such as during driving or typing. Heavy lifting and repetitive movements, especially twisting and bending, should also be minimised whenever possible.
Physiotherapy treatment for lower back facet joint pain
Physiotherapy treatment will include strengthening and stretching exercises to maintain the strength and flexibility of your lumbar spine. Massage and heat therapy may be used to relieve muscle spasms and pain in the affected area. Postural advice and corrective exercises form an essential part of the treatment to minimise additional strain on your lower back. Other important treatments may include:
- Joint mobilisations – to improve movement in the lumbar spine and reduce stiffness
- Core stability exercises – to strengthen the deep abdominal and back muscles that support the spine
- Electrotherapy treatments – such as TENS or ultrasound to reduce pain and promote healing
- Activity modification advice – to help you adapt daily activities and avoid aggravating movements
- Education on ergonomics – guidance on correct sitting, standing, and lifting techniques
- Home exercise programme – tailored exercises to continue progress outside physiotherapy sessions
Could there be any long-term effects from lower back facet joint pain?
If you ignore the symptoms of lower back facet joint pain, the condition may progressively worsen, making it increasingly difficult to manage. Over time, this can lead to chronic (long-term) pain, which can significantly extend your recovery period and potentially limit your daily activities.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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