A " Facet Syndrome" is defined as an overriding of the posterior articulating facets or contiguous spinal segments. Classically a facet syndrome is described as being of sudden onset, usually brought on by trauma and either unilateral or bilateral in distribiilion. There can be radiations of pain reported although many cases are free of radicular pain. Neurological tests are negative however there is a considerable amount, of back spasm present. The patient will usually attain an antalgic position and the pain is aggravated by spinal motions that are in opposition to the motion that caused the initial insult.

The spinal facet joints are true synovial joints with complete capsules. Upon traumatic insult there is inflammation of the facet capsules which causes irritation of the nociceptors in the affected area- In addition to the irritation of the nociceptors there is also an overlying spasm to the musculature of the compromised segment.