Causes

The causes for the development of facet arthrosis are complex. It is usually a combination of long-term poor posture and overloading. Systemic diseases such as rheumatism or arthritis can also promote the development of facet arthrosis.

In the cervical spine, the joints are particularly delicate and at the same time are under great strain due to the strong mobility of the head.The joint gap between the facet joints is very narrow, so that slight misalignments can quickly lead to overloading of the cartilage surface. Permanent unilateral overloading can lead to cartilage damage. An arthrosis develops. With increasing age, the height of the intervertebral discs between the vertebrae also decreases, so that the space between the facet joints is also further narrowed, which promotes the development of arthrosis. Instability in the cervical spine due to a lack of muscular support can also lead to long-term overloading of the joints and thus be partly responsible for the development of facet arthrosis of the cervical spine.

Vertebral blockage

One speaks of a vertebral blockage when there is a minimal change in the joint mechanics. This can cause pain and movement restrictions. Instability can lead to blockages in the cervical spine.

Frequent blockages may be partly responsible for damage to the cartilage structure and thus promote facet arthrosis. In the case of arthrosis itself, the change in the morphology of the joint surfaces can also lead to increased blockages. If ossification of the joints occurs (late stage), blockades in this section are no longer possible.

However, the attempt to compensate in other sections can then lead to blockages. Often the blockage is accompanied by tension in the surrounding muscles. By releasing the tension, the blockade can sometimes be released by itself through targeted mobilization.

Neck pain with facet arthrosis

Neck pain can often be caused by facet arthrosis, but it can also have a variety of other causes. The arthrotic changes in the cervical spine can lead to irritation of the exiting nerves. These are expressed indirectly through muscle tension or directly via the sensitive nerve tracts. Massages, warmth or slight stretching can help against neck pain.