Zygapophyseal (Facet) Pain Syndrome

Cervical facet syndrome is a syndrome in which the zygapophyseal joints of the cervical spine generate neck pain or headaches. It is typically believed to be caused by degenerative changes of the facets in the cervical spine. Usually described as dull and achy, the pain may be accompanied by headaches and present with pain with cervical range of motion. Pain may radiate to the posterior shoulder, posterior neck, and occiput. The most common exam findings include tenderness to palpation over the cervical facet joint and reproducible pain with neck rotation, lateral flexion, or extension in the absence of any neurological deficits. The most common treatment regimens include conservative management like physical therapy, joint injections, or local articular nerve blocks. Surgical interventions are also a treatment option if all conservative treatment fails, but remain controversial in terms of efficacy.