causes of back pain and facet joint arthropathy

The causes of spinal and neck pain vary greatly, but they are undoubtedly among the most prominent health problems faced by many of us. Despite the spine's importance in supporting our physical structure and movement, it has become a source of pain and severe tension that significantly affects our lives. However, there is renewed hope and a non-surgical solution emanating from Dr. Mohamed Koura's center, where modern treatment is offered that does not require surgery, allowing you to effectively alleviate these pains.

In this article, we will explore together the causes of spinal and neck pain and learn how to differentiate between them, so stay tuned.

What are the reasons of spinal pain?

There are several reasons behind spinal pain, including the following:

Facet Joint Arthropathy

Between each vertebra, there are important joints known as facet joints, which contribute to the balance and movement of the spine. In many cases, these joints can become inflamed, leading to pain on both sides of the spine, as illustrated.

When inflammation occurs in the facet joints, radiofrequency ablation of the nerves can be used.

Discogenic Pain

Discogenic Pain is a condition that occurs when part of the nucleus pulposus slips within the outer layer of the disc, without causing herniation into the spinal canal. In this condition, the nerve roots are not compressed, but pain appears only in the lower back area without affecting the legs or arms.

When this internal disc disruption or tear in the outer layer of the disc occurs, a treatment known as Biacuplasty is usually performed. This involves directing continuous thermal frequency on the outer layer of the disc using radiofrequency, which provides full visibility throughout the procedure.

Inflammation of Back muscles
When inflammation occurs in the back muscles, sessions of Laser Therapy (Weber Needles) may be the best technique to reduce swelling and pain. Interstitial Laser Therapy directs optical energy towards pain points in the muscles using thin optical fibers and ultrasound technology to precisely guide these fibers. The patient undergoes several sessions, typically ranging from 6 to 10 sessions, with each session lasting between 20 to 30 minutes to achieve maximum therapeutic benefit.

Inflammation of the spine with sacroiliac joint arthropathy

Sacroiliac joint arthropathy is a joint that connects the lumbar vertebra to the pelvis bones, and its inflammation can cause sharp pain that radiates from the lower back to the outer side of the leg, sometimes extending to the front part of the upper thigh in the pelvic area. Pain typically worsens with movement between rest and activity.

To treat sacroiliac joint arthropathy, thermal frequency is used towards the nerves that supply this joint, guided by visual imaging for precise targeting. This treatment aims to alleviate pain and calm inflammation in the joint to improve the patient's condition.

Vertebral fracture or Osteoporosis

In case of a vertebral fracture or osteoporosis in the vertebrae, cement injections can be performed in the affected vertebral body as a therapeutic procedure. This is done under local anesthesia and guided injection under fluoroscopy supervision. For more information and details, please refer to the "Vertebral Cement Injections" section.

Thoracic pain

Many patients experience chest pain, specifically in the back area below the neck and above the lower back. These pains often result from inflammation in the thoracic spine joints, with the location of the pain varying depending on the affected joint. Chest area pains are characterized by worsening when leaning backward and usually radiate down to about two vertebrae below the affected spine. Pain may be accompanied by spinal curvature due to the impact of the muscles surrounding the vertebrae.

Neck pain

Neck pain shares many similarities with the causes of lower back pain, but the difference lies in how the pain is transmitted due to pressure on the nerve roots, which can radiate to the shoulders and arms. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive examination of the patient, along with comparison with X-rays and MRI scans of the neck area. Some of the most common causes include:

Cervical facet arthropathy:

Facet joint pain is characterized by its diverse types and widespread occurrence. The upper cervical joints can cause a type of headache (which we'll delve into in detail under the headache section), while the middle cervical joints can cause pain in the neck area. Lower cervical joints can cause pain in the shoulders and upper back.

Discogenic pain:

This type of pain is typically treated by removing the disc.

Regardless of the cause of back or neck pain, you will find a safe solution at Dr. Mohamed Koura's center. Book now using the following numbers.