Facet Joint Pain Treatment in Haddington & East Lothian
If you have sharp lower back pain, stiffness when you get up from sitting, or pain when you bend backwards or twist, you may be experiencing facet joint pain.
Facet joints are the small joints at the back of your spine that help it bend and twist. When they become irritated or inflamed, they can cause very local, sharp pain and stiffness – sometimes with pain into the buttock or thigh.
At County Physio in Haddington, we provide targeted physiotherapy treatment for facet joint pain, helping you reduce pain, restore movement and get back to normal life.
What Is Facet Joint Pain?
Facet joints are paired joints at each level of your spine. They help guide movement and provide stability.
When these joints are overloaded, irritated or affected by wear-and-tear (arthritic changes), they can become painful and stiff. This is often called:
Facet joint pain
Facet joint syndrome
Z-joint pain
Mechanical back pain
Facet joint problems are a very common cause of back pain, especially in the lower back and sometimes in the neck.
Common Symptoms of Facet Joint Pain
You may have facet joint pain if you notice:
Localised pain on one side of the lower back or both sides
Pain that is worse when bending backwards or leaning to one side
Pain and stiffness when getting out of bed or up from a chair
Pain after standing or walking for long periods
Aching into the buttock or upper thigh (but usually not past the knee)
Relief when sitting or bending slightly forwards
If these symptoms sound familiar, a physiotherapy assessment can help confirm whether your facet joints are the main source of your pain.
What Causes Facet Joint Pain?
Facet joint pain often develops due to a mix of:
Repetitive bending and twisting
Prolonged standing or extension (leaning backwards)
Arthritic changes / wear-and-tear in the spine
Previous back injuries
Poor movement patterns or posture
Weakness in core and hip muscles
Stiffness in the hips, thoracic spine or hamstrings causing extra strain on the lower back
It can come on suddenly after a particular movement, or gradually build over time.
How Physiotherapy Helps Facet Joint Pain
Physiotherapy is very effective for facet-related back pain. At County Physio, we focus on reducing pain quickly while also addressing the underlying cause to prevent it coming back.
Detailed Assessment
In your first session we will: Ask about how and when your pain started, Assess your posture and spinal movement, Test which movements increase or reduce your pain, Check hip, pelvis and core control, Identify stiff or overloaded areas in the spine, This helps us confirm if the facet joints are likely responsible and guides your treatment plan.
Hands-On Treatment
We use specific manual techniques to reduce pain and stiffness, such as: Facet joint mobilisation, Soft tissue release for tight back and hip muscles, Trigger point work, Gentle stretching, Dry needling where appropriate, These techniques aim to calm the irritated joints and surrounding muscles, making it easier to move.
Movement & Mobility Restoration
Facet joint pain often improves quickly when we: Restore normal spinal movement, Reduce stiffness in the hips and mid-back, Improve how you bend, twist and stand, You’ll be given simple, targeted exercises to do at home to keep you moving between sessions.
Strengthening & Stability
To prevent recurrent flare-ups, we address: Core strength and control Glute and hip strength Postural endurance Safe bending and lifting strategies A stronger, more stable spine is less likely to become irritated again.
Posture, Workstation & Lifestyle Advice
We’ll help you identify everyday habits that might be aggravating your facet joints, such as: Prolonged standing or extension Extended periods in one posture at work Certain gym exercises or hobbies You’ll get clear, practical advice to adjust these without giving up the things you enjoy.
Do I Have Facet Joint Pain or a Disc Problem?
Facet joint pain and disc problems can feel similar, but some patterns help us differentiate:
Facet joint pain is more likely if:
Pain is localised to the lower back and buttock
Pain is worse leaning backwards / standing
Pain improves when sitting or bending forwards
Pain rarely goes below the knee
Disc-related pain is more likely if:
Pain is worse bending forwards or sitting
Pain radiates below the knee (sciatica)
Coughing or sneezing worsens symptoms
During your assessment, we’ll test specific movements and positions to identify the most likely source of your symptoms.
Who Is This Treatment For?
Our facet joint pain treatment is ideal if you:
Have local lower back pain and stiffness
Feel pain on standing, walking or arching your back
Have been told you have “wear and tear” or facet arthritis
Have recurring back pain episodes
Feel that your back “locks” or “catches” at times
You do not need a referral from your GP or consultant to see us.
Why Choose County Physio for Facet Joint Pain Treatment?
- Experienced physiotherapists specialising in back pain and spinal conditions
- One-to-one, personalised treatment sessions
- Hands-on techniques and exercises tailored to your body
- Clear, structured rehab plans
- Convenient Haddington location, serving East Lothian and surrounding areas
- Focus on both short-term pain relief and long-term prevention
FAQ(Frequently Asked Questions)
Is facet joint pain the same as arthritis?
Facet joints can develop arthritic changes over time, and this is often part of facet joint pain. However, pain is not just about “wear and tear” – movement, muscle strength and lifestyle also play a big role, which physiotherapy can address.
Can facet joint pain be cured?
Many people experience excellent long-term improvement with the right treatment, exercises and lifestyle changes. While age-related changes in the joints remain, symptoms can often be reduced or fully controlled.
Is imaging (X-ray/MRI) necessary?
Not always. Many cases of facet joint pain can be diagnosed clinically in a physiotherapy assessment. Imaging may be helpful if symptoms don’t improve as expected, or if there are any worrying signs.
Should I rest or stay active?
Complete rest usually makes stiffness worse. Gentle, guided movement is almost always better. Your physiotherapist will advise what activities to reduce temporarily and what to keep doing.
Can physiotherapy help if I’ve had back pain for years?
Yes. Even long-standing back pain often responds very well once the underlying movement, strength and postural issues are addressed.
Book Your Facet Joint Pain Assessment Today
If back pain is limiting your work, hobbies or daily life, it’s time to get it properly assessed and treated.
Further Reading on Back Pain
Want to learn more about back pain, its causes, and how to manage it? Explore our latest articles:
- Physiotherapy Exercises for Lower Back Pain
- Sciatica Explained: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
- Is Your Back Pain Caused by Arthritis, a Slipped Disc, or Posture?
- Morning Back Pain: Why It Happens & How Physiotherapy Helps
- Best Sleeping Positions for Lower Back Pain
- Can Physiotherapy Prevent Back Pain from Returning?
- When Should I See a Physiotherapist for Back Pain?
- Slipped Disc vs Sciatica – What’s the Difference & How Physiotherapy Helps
