Back pain can have many sources, but two of the most common and closely linked conditions are degenerative disc disease (DDD) and facet joint arthritis. These conditions often develop gradually, sometimes with few symptoms in the early stages. But over time, they can significantly impact your mobility, comfort, and quality of life.
At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, we often see patients who are unaware that their back pain is due to a combination of spinal disc and joint degeneration. In this blog, we explain how degenerative disc disease progresses to facet joint arthritis, how to recognize the signs, and what treatments are available to help you stay active and pain-free.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Despite its name, degenerative disc disease is not actually a disease—it’s a natural part of the aging process. Over time, the spinal discs (which act like shock absorbers between your vertebrae) lose water content, become thinner, and may start to break down. This loss of disc height and flexibility can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Some people may not notice symptoms early on, while others may experience:
- Chronic low back pain or neck pain
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or lifting
- Occasional numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
How Disc Degeneration Affects the Facet Joints
The facet joints are small joints located at the back of the spine that help with stability and movement. These joints work together with the discs to allow the spine to bend and twist smoothly.
When spinal discs begin to deteriorate, two key changes occur:
- Loss of Disc Height: As the disc becomes thinner, the space between vertebrae narrows.
- Increased Load on Facet Joints: With less cushioning from the disc, more pressure is placed on the facet joints.
Over time, this extra stress can lead to facet joint degeneration, also known as facet joint arthritis or facet arthropathy. Just like arthritis in the knees or hips, this condition causes inflammation, joint stiffness, and pain.
Symptoms of Facet Joint Arthritis
When facet joint arthritis develops, it may present with symptoms such as:
- Localized back or neck pain
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
- Pain that worsens with standing, twisting, or arching the back
- Radiating pain into the buttocks or thighs (if the lower spine is affected)
- A sensation of “grinding” or “catching” during movement
These symptoms can overlap with those of degenerative disc disease, which is why a thorough evaluation is essential.
Diagnosis and Imaging at DRHC Dubai
At DRHC, we use advanced imaging tools such as MRI, X-rays, and CT scans to evaluate both the spinal discs and facet joints. A detailed physical exam and review of your medical history help us create a clear picture of how far the condition has progressed.
If you’re experiencing ongoing back pain and are unsure of the cause, our team can provide an accurate diagnosis and a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Treatment Options: From Conservative to Advanced Care
We understand that the thought of spinal procedures or surgery can be overwhelming. That’s why our first approach focuses on non-surgical options whenever possible.
Conservative Treatments
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve posture
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
- Postural training and lifestyle advice to reduce strain on the spine
- Facet joint injections (steroid + anesthetic) for targeted pain relief
These methods are often effective for early to moderate cases and help reduce inflammation and pain while improving function.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
If conservative treatments are no longer effective, we may consider advanced options such as:
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): A procedure that gently heats nerve endings near the facet joints to block pain signals
- Minimally invasive spine surgery: For severe degeneration or nerve compression, small-incision surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure and stabilize the spine
At DRHC Dubai, your comfort and safety are our priorities. Our spine specialists will guide you through every step of your treatment journey with clear explanations and compassionate care.
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Topic: orthopedic Spine Surgery
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