Facet joints is also known as zygapophyseal, apophyseal, or Z-joint.Facet joint are synovial joints between the vertebrae of spine. There are two facet joints (left and right) in each spinal motion segment.

Each pair of facet joints limits movement of that spinal motion segment. Each section of spine has facet joints.
• Cervical facet joints (neck)
• Thoracic facet joints (mid back)
• Lumbar facet joints (low back)

1. Joint motion can stiffen - known as hypomobility.
• Locked facet joint- Simple movements such as a mild twist, awkward movement
• Facet joint arthritis
• Degenerative facet joint osteophytes (bone spurs)
• Joint capsule scarring ( thickening or shortening)
• Muscle spasm

2. Joint motion can become excessive - known as hypermobility.
• Fracture
• Dislocation
• Overstretched ligaments
• Disease that destroys the joints. E.g. Rheumatoid arthritis.

1. A neck facet joint will cause neck pain and potentially shoulder or upper arm pain.
2. A back facet joint injury will cause low back pain and potentially pain referred into buttock or thigh
3. When a facet joint locks, Patient may not be able to move in the direction away from where it’s lock
4. Muscle spasm
5. Pain on the opposite side to the locked facet joint
6. Decreased movement
7. Pain or difficulty stretching
8. Weak stability muscles that are failing to control movement of spine

• Hands on examination from a physiotherapist
• X-rays, MRI’s and CT scan are unable to detect a locked facet joint.

• Painless joint releasing technique
• Strengthening Exercises
• stabilization program for hypermobile facet joint