Understanding Cervical Facet Joint Pain: 7 Signs to Watch Out For

Neck pain can be quite debilitating, affecting your daily activities and overall quality of life. One potential source of neck pain is the cervical facet joints. These small joints play a significant role in your neck’s stability and movement. In this blog, we will explore seven telltale signs that your neck pain might be stemming from the cervical facet joints. By understanding these signs, you can take informed steps towards accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

1. Distinctive Type of Pain : The pain arising from cervical facet joint issues is often described as a dull ache or discomfort. Unlike sharp or shooting pain, which might be associated with nerve-related problems, facet joint pain tends to be more localized and consistent. This pain can typically be felt on one side of the neck.
2. Radiation Pattern : Cervical facet joint pain tends to radiate in a distinct pattern. It usually spreads from the neck to the base of the skull, across the shoulders, and may even extend into the upper back. This radiation pattern helps differentiate facet joint pain from other sources of neck discomfort.
3. Differentiating from Cervical Disc Pain : Cervical facet joint pain can often be mistaken for cervical disc pain due to the similarity in symptoms. However, there are specific differences. Facet joint pain usually worsens with neck movement and is relieved when the neck is at rest. In contrast, cervical disc pain might worsen with prolonged sitting or maintaining the same position.
4. Provocative Movements : Certain movements that put stress on the cervical facet joints can trigger or exacerbate the pain. Activities like turning your head, looking upwards or sideways, and even tilting your head can elicit pain if the facet joints are involved.
5. Resistance to Conservative Treatments : If you’ve tried various conservative treatments for neck pain, such as rest, physical therapy, or over-the-counter pain medications, without significant improvement, cervical facet joint involvement could be a possible explanation. Facet joint pain might not respond well to these treatments, as the underlying joint-related issue might require more targeted interventions.
6. Palpable Tenderness : In some cases, gentle palpation of the neck’s sides might reveal tenderness over the facet joints. Healthcare professionals skilled in assessing musculoskeletal issues can identify this tenderness during a physical examination.
7. Temporary Relief from Neck Manipulation : Cervical facet joint pain might temporarily improve with cervical manipulation or manual therapy. While this can provide some relief, it’s crucial to remember that long-term improvement requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root cause of the pain. In addition improper manipulation can sometimes lead to worsening of symptoms.

Recognizing the signs of cervical facet joint pain is a crucial step towards effective pain management and improved quality of life. If you identify with several of the signs mentioned above, it’s advisable to consult a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in musculoskeletal issues. AT ALLEVIATE, we perform a thorough evaluation, possibly including imaging tests such as MRI and Dynamic X rays to accurately diagnose the source of your neck pain and advise you on a suitable treatment plan.

1. Perolat R, Kastler A, Nicot B, Pellat JM, Tahon F, Attye A, Heck O, Boubagra K, Grand S, Krainik A. Facet joint syndrome: from diagnosis to interventional management. Insights Imaging. 2018 Oct;9(5):773-789. doi: 10.1007/s13244-018-0638-x. Epub 2018 Aug 8. PMID: 30090998; PMCID: PMC6206372.
2. Hurley RW, Adams MCB, Barad M, Bhaskar A, Bhatia A, Chadwick A, Deer TR, Hah J, Hooten WM, Kissoon NR, Lee DW, Mccormick Z, Moon JY, Narouze S, Provenzano DA, Schneider BJ, van Eerd M, Van Zundert J, Wallace MS, Wilson SM, Zhao Z, Cohen SP. Consensus practice guidelines on interventions for cervical spine (facet) joint pain from a multispecialty international working group. Pain Med. 2021 Nov 26;22(11):2443-2524.doi: 10.1093/pm/pnab281. PMID: 34788462; PMCID: PMC8633772.
3. Kim KH, Choi SH, Kim TK, Shin SW, Kim CH, Kim JI. Cervical facet joint injections in the neck and shoulder pain. J Korean Med Sci. 2005 Aug;20(4):659-62. doi: 10.3346/jkms.2005.20.4.659. PMID: 16100461; PMCID: PMC2782165.