The cervical facet joints or zygapophyseal joints provide support, stability and mobility to the cervical vertebrae, especially on extending, bending and rotation of the neck area. Similar to other joints in the body, these joints are vulnerable to inflammation and degeneration. Cervical facet joint disorders are some of the most common of all the recurrent, disabling neck and upper back problems and can cause serious symptoms and disability for patients. These conditions can be treated by inactivating nociceptors in the cervical zygapophyseal capsule using temporary blocks with a local anaesthetic and an additional steroid, when necessary.
Reference
- Theodoridis T., Kraemer J.: Injektionstherapie an der Wirbelsäule. Manual und Atlas. 3. Auflage. Thieme 2017.