What is Facet Syndrome?
Facets are the bony, wing-like protrusions extending from the back of the vertebrae that align with facets on the vertebrae above and below, and give the spine a more diverse range of motion. Facets function as guides for the spine and are not designed for bearing weight like vertebrae and discs. Joining adjacent facets are small ligaments called facet joints. Facet syndrome involves inflammation of the facet joints. It is one of the lesser-known but surprisingly common causes of back pain.