Cervical Facet Joint Syndrome

Facet joints, formed by the superior and inferior articular processes, exhibit diarthrodial characteristics. A fibrous capsule, synovial membrane, articular cartilage, and menisci envelope each facet joint, with synovial folds contributing to pain.

Nerve Innervation

• Medial branches of cervical dorsal rami supply cervical facet joints from C3-C4 to C8-T1.
• Specific branches, like the third occipital nerve and articular branches, innervate the C2-C3 facet joint.
• Atlanta-occipital and Atlanta-axial joints receive innervation from C1 and C2 ventral rami.

Traumatic Causes

• Whiplash injuries, fractures, and dislocations leading to facet joint compression and capsular ligament strain.

Degenerative Causes

• Osteoarthritis related to disc degeneration and the 3-joint complex theory.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes comprehensive history, clinical examination, sensory and motor testing, and Spurling's test. Imaging modalities such as X-rays in flexion and extension views, dynamic X-ray imaging, MRI, and CT scans are utilized. Confirmatory diagnostic injections or medial branch blocks under fluoroscopic guidance are also important.

Treatment at Dr. Tushar's Clinic

• Pain relief through anti-inflammatory injections and Radiofrequency Ablation.
• Successive treatments with Image-guided Platelet Rich Plasma and Comprehensive Prolotherapy.

Significant improvement observed in patients following the completion of PrP and Prolotherapy sessions, combined with exercise and lifestyle modifications.