Posterior Facet Arthrosis
Spinal Decompression for Posterior Facet Arthrosis
Posterior facet arthrosis involves degenerative changes in the small joints at the back of the spine. These changes may contribute to stiffness, localised pain and reduced movement, particularly in the neck or lower back.
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment approach that uses controlled mechanical forces to reduce spinal loading. For some patients, it may help improve comfort and movement when combined with appropriate exercise, rehabilitation and lifestyle strategies.
Health Wise Chiropractic provides evidence-informed spinal care in Sunbury and Melton, with treatment recommendations based on individual assessment.
Posterior facet arthrosis is a degenerative condition affecting the small joints located at the back of the spine. These facet joints help guide spinal movement and provide stability, but over time they can develop age-related wear, inflammation and changes that may contribute to back or neck pain. Spinal decompression may help some people with posterior facet arthrosis by reducing mechanical stress on spinal structures, improving movement tolerance and supporting a broader rehabilitation approach.
Facet joint changes are common, especially as people get older, but not everyone with arthrosis experiences symptoms. Pain can occur when irritated joints, surrounding muscles, spinal discs or nearby nerves become involved. The most appropriate treatment depends on an individual assessment of the source of pain, severity of symptoms and overall health.
At Health Wise Chiropractic, spinal decompression may be considered as part of a personalised management plan for suitable patients in Sunbury and Melton. Treatment recommendations are based on clinical examination, symptom patterns and the patient’s goals.
Early management may help improve mobility, reduce aggravating factors and support long-term spinal health. However, spinal decompression is not suitable for every person with posterior facet arthrosis, and some cases require referral to a GP or specialist for further investigation.
Understanding Posterior Facet Arthrosis
Posterior facet arthrosis refers to degenerative changes affecting the facet joints, also known as zygapophyseal joints or posterior spinal joints. These joints are located at the back (posterior side) of the spinal column and exist on both sides of each vertebra.
The facet joints work together with spinal discs, ligaments and muscles to allow controlled movement while maintaining stability. They help guide bending, twisting and extension movements of the spine while preventing excessive motion.
Like other joints in the body, such as the knees or hips, facet joints can undergo gradual wear and structural changes over time. These changes may include:
Thinning of the joint cartilage
Enlargement of the joint surfaces (bone remodelling)
Formation of small bone spurs (osteophytes)
Thickening of surrounding tissues
Irritation of joint structures
These changes are commonly described as spinal osteoarthritis or degenerative facet joint disease.
How Spinal Decompression May Help Posterior Facet Arthrosis
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment approach that uses controlled mechanical forces to gently stretch and unload sections of the spine. It is commonly used as part of a broader management plan for certain spinal conditions involving discs, joints and surrounding tissues.
For people with posterior facet arthrosis, spinal decompression may be considered when symptoms are associated with mechanical stress, reduced spinal mobility, stiffness or irritation of surrounding structures. However, it is important to understand that spinal decompression does not reverse arthritis or restore damaged joint cartilage. Instead, the goal is to improve comfort, movement and function where appropriate.
Posterior facet arthrosis involves changes within the small joints at the back of the spine. These joints can become irritated when they are exposed to repeated compression, reduced movement or altered spinal mechanics. By applying controlled unloading forces, spinal decompression may help reduce stress through spinal structures and allow some patients to move more comfortably.
The suitability of spinal decompression depends on the individual’s symptoms, examination findings and overall health.
How Spinal Decompression Works
During spinal decompression, a specialised table applies carefully controlled traction forces to specific areas of the spine.
The treatment aims to create periods of reduced compressive loading between spinal segments. This may influence several factors involved in spinal discomfort, including:
Reducing Mechanical Stress
Facet joints are load-bearing structures. Activities such as prolonged standing, repetitive bending, lifting or spinal extension can increase compression through these joints.
Spinal decompression may help temporarily reduce compressive forces, which may allow irritated tissues to settle and improve movement tolerance.
Supporting Spinal Mobility
People with posterior facet arthrosis often experience stiffness and reduced spinal movement. Gentle unloading may assist some patients by making movement more comfortable, particularly when combined with active rehabilitation.
Maintaining movement is important because prolonged inactivity can contribute to:
Increased stiffness
Reduced muscle strength
Lower physical capacity
Greater sensitivity to movement
Reducing Irritation Around Spinal Structures
Degenerative changes can affect multiple structures, including:
Facet joints
Spinal discs
Ligaments
Surrounding muscles
Nerve tissues
Symptoms may not come from one structure alone. Spinal decompression is often used alongside other therapies designed to address the broader causes of discomfort.
Treatment Goals for Posterior Facet Arthrosis
The goals of spinal decompression are individualised and may include:
Reducing spinal discomfort
Improving movement tolerance
Supporting return to daily activities
Reducing stiffness
Improving confidence with movement
Supporting rehabilitation progress
Reducing reliance on passive care alone
A successful outcome is usually measured by improvements in function rather than changes seen on imaging.
For example, meaningful improvements may include:
Being able to walk further
Returning to exercise
Sitting more comfortably
Performing work duties with fewer symptoms
Sleeping better
Moving with greater confidence
Potential Benefits of Spinal Decompression for Posterior Facet Arthrosis
Some patients may experience benefits from spinal decompression, particularly when their symptoms are related to mechanical spinal loading.
Potential benefits may include:
Reduced Pain Sensitivity
By decreasing mechanical stress on spinal structures, some people may experience reduced pain levels.
Pain reduction varies significantly between individuals and depends on factors including:
Duration of symptoms
Severity of degeneration
Activity levels
General health
Other contributing conditions
Improved Range of Motion
Posterior facet arthrosis may contribute to stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity.
A treatment plan combining spinal decompression with mobility exercises may help improve comfortable movement.
Improved Tolerance to Daily Activities
The ability to perform normal activities is often more important than pain scores alone.
Spinal decompression may help some patients gradually return to activities such as:
Walking
Gardening
Work tasks
Exercise
Household activities
Reduced Dependence on Passive Treatment
The best long-term outcomes for spinal conditions generally involve active strategies such as:
Strengthening exercises
Mobility training
Education
Lifestyle modifications
Spinal decompression may be used as a tool to assist patients while they build capacity through rehabilitation.
Symptoms of Posterior Facet Arthrosis
Symptoms vary significantly between individuals. Some people have no symptoms, while others experience persistent discomfort.
Common symptoms may include:
Localised spinal pain
Aching or stiffness around affected joints
Reduced range of motion
Pain that worsens with certain movements
Discomfort after prolonged sitting or standing
Muscle tightness around the affected area
Pain during spinal extension or rotation
Referred pain into nearby regions
Facet joint pain is generally different from nerve-related pain.
Joint-Related Pain
Facet-related pain is often:
Localised near the spine
Worse with certain positions or movements
Associated with stiffness
Muscle-Related Pain
Muscles around the spine may become tight or overloaded as they compensate for painful joints. This may cause:
Aching
Tenderness
Fatigue with activity
Nerve-Related Pain
In some cases, degenerative changes around the spine may contribute to nerve irritation. Symptoms may include:
Tingling
Numbness
Burning sensations
Weakness
Pain travelling into the arm or leg
These symptoms require careful assessment because nerve involvement may require different management.
Acute Versus Chronic Posterior Facet Arthrosis
Posterior facet arthrosis is generally considered a chronic degenerative condition, meaning the underlying joint changes develop over time.
However, symptoms may appear suddenly due to:
A sudden increase in physical activity
Awkward lifting
Minor injury
Increased inflammation around the joint
Reduced movement after periods of inactivity
An acute flare-up may settle over days or weeks, while persistent symptoms may require a longer-term management approach.
Management usually focuses on improving function, reducing aggravating factors and helping patients maintain healthy movement rather than attempting to reverse structural changes.
Prognosis and Long-Term Outlook
The outlook for people with posterior facet arthrosis varies depending on factors such as:
Severity of joint changes
Age
Activity levels
General health
Strength and mobility
Presence of nerve involvement
Response to treatment
Many people with facet arthrosis can remain active and manage symptoms successfully with appropriate care.
A combination of approaches may be recommended, including:
Manual therapy where appropriate
Exercise rehabilitation
Strength and mobility training
Education about posture and movement
Lifestyle modifications
Weight management where relevant
Medical management when required
Spinal decompression may be considered for selected patients as part of a broader treatment plan. It is not designed to “repair” arthritic joints, but rather may assist with reducing mechanical stress and improving comfort in suitable cases.
A thorough assessment helps determine whether spinal decompression is an appropriate option or whether another approach may be more beneficial.
What Happens During Your Appointment?
Your Spinal Decompression Assessment at Health Wise Chiropractic
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with posterior facet arthrosis, your first appointment will focus on understanding your condition, identifying the likely sources of your symptoms and determining whether spinal decompression is an appropriate option.
Every patient is different, and treatment recommendations are based on an individual assessment rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
At Health Wise Chiropractic clinics in Sunbury and Melton, your appointment may include the following steps.
1. Health History and Discussion
Your chiropractor will begin by discussing your symptoms and health history.
Important information may include:
When your symptoms started
Whether symptoms developed suddenly or gradually
Activities that aggravate or relieve symptoms
Previous injuries or accidents
Your work demands and lifestyle
Exercise habits
Previous treatments you have tried
Any medical conditions or medications
Understanding the pattern of your symptoms helps determine whether your discomfort is more likely related to:
Facet joint irritation
Muscular tension
Disc-related issues
Nerve irritation
Referred pain from another structure
2. Physical Examination
A physical examination may include assessment of:
Spinal movement
Posture and alignment
Muscle strength
Joint mobility
Functional movements
Areas of tenderness
Neurological signs where appropriate
Your chiropractor may assess movements that commonly influence facet joint symptoms, such as:
Bending backwards
Rotation
Standing tolerance
Walking ability
Functional activities
The goal is not only to identify where pain is located but also to understand why symptoms may be occurring.
3. Clinical Assessment and Treatment Planning
After your assessment, your chiropractor will explain their findings and discuss suitable management options.
Your plan may include:
Spinal decompression where appropriate
Chiropractic care
Exercise rehabilitation
Mobility strategies
Strengthening exercises
Lifestyle recommendations
Referral to another healthcare professional if required
Spinal decompression is generally most effective when it forms part of a comprehensive plan rather than being used as a standalone treatment.
4. What Happens During Spinal Decompression?
If spinal decompression is considered suitable, you will be positioned comfortably on a specialised decompression table.
The treatment involves:
Secure positioning to target the relevant spinal region
Gentle controlled traction forces
Periods of unloading and relaxation
Monitoring throughout the session
The treatment should not be painful. Some patients describe the sensation as a gentle stretching or pulling feeling.
Your chiropractor will adjust treatment settings based on:
Your symptoms
Your comfort level
Your condition
Your response during treatment
5. Aftercare Advice
Following treatment, your chiropractor may recommend:
Gentle movement
Specific exercises
Postural strategies
Activity modifications
Hydration and recovery advice
The aim is to help you gradually build capacity and return to normal activities.
Home Care & Exercises
Exercise is an important part of managing posterior facet arthrosis. While spinal decompression may help reduce symptoms for some patients, maintaining strength, mobility and confidence with movement is essential for long-term spinal health.
The following exercises are general examples. Your individual exercise program should be adjusted based on your assessment.
1. Cat-Camel Spinal Mobility Exercise
Purpose:
Helps improve gentle spinal movement and reduce stiffness.
Instructions:
Start on your hands and knees.
Slowly round your spine upwards.
Slowly lower your spine and gently arch it.
Move smoothly without forcing the range.
Repetitions:
10 repetitions
Frequency:
Once or twice daily
Progression:
Gradually increase repetitions or combine with controlled breathing.
2. Pelvic Tilts
Purpose:
Improves awareness and control of lower back movement.
Instructions:
Lie on your back with knees bent.
Gently flatten your lower back toward the floor.
Hold briefly.
Relax and repeat.
Repetitions:
10–15 repetitions
Frequency:
Daily
Progression:
Perform standing pelvic tilts or incorporate into core exercises.
3. Walking Program
Purpose:
Encourages spinal movement, circulation and general conditioning.
Instructions:
Begin with a comfortable walking distance.
Maintain an upright posture.
Increase gradually as tolerated.
Frequency:
Most days of the week
Progression:
Increase duration by small amounts rather than large sudden increases.
4. Glute Bridge Exercise
Purpose:
Strengthens muscles that support the pelvis and lower back.
Instructions:
Lie on your back with knees bent.
Tighten your abdominal muscles gently.
Lift your hips slowly from the floor.
Hold briefly before lowering.
Repetitions:
8–12 repetitions
Frequency:
3 times per week
Progression:
Increase repetitions or add resistance when comfortable.
5. Gentle Hip Flexor Stretch
Purpose:
Improves hip mobility, which may reduce unnecessary stress through the lower spine.
Instructions:
Kneel with one foot forward.
Keep your torso upright.
Gently move your hips forward.
Hold without forcing the stretch.
Duration:
20–30 seconds
Frequency:
Daily
Progression:
Increase flexibility gradually over time.
Prevention Tips
While posterior facet arthrosis cannot always be prevented, healthy lifestyle choices may help reduce unnecessary stress on the spine and support long-term function.
Maintain Good Movement Habits
Avoid staying in one position for long periods.
Helpful strategies include:
Taking regular movement breaks
Changing positions throughout the day
Avoiding prolonged sitting
Maintaining comfortable spinal movement
Improve Workstation Setup
For people who spend significant time at a desk:
Keep screens at eye level
Support your lower back comfortably
Keep feet flat on the floor
Avoid prolonged forward head posture
Take movement breaks every 30–60 minutes
Lift Safely
When lifting:
Plan the movement before starting
Keep objects close to your body
Avoid sudden twisting movements
Use your legs rather than relying only on your back
Ask for assistance with heavy loads
Prioritise Sleep Quality
Sleep supports recovery and overall pain management.
Helpful strategies include:
Maintaining consistent sleep routines
Using a comfortable mattress and pillow
Avoiding positions that increase discomfort
Allowing adequate recovery time
Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise supports:
Muscle strength
Joint mobility
Balance
General health
Suitable activities may include:
Walking
Swimming
Strength training
Mobility exercises
Manage Stress
Stress can influence muscle tension and pain sensitivity.
Helpful approaches include:
Regular physical activity
Relaxation techniques
Breathing exercises
Adequate sleep
Maintaining social connection
Recovery Timeline
Recovery from posterior facet arthrosis varies significantly between individuals.
Factors influencing recovery include:
How long symptoms have been present
Severity of joint changes
Activity levels
General health
Consistency with rehabilitation
Work and lifestyle demands
Mild Cases
People with mild symptoms may notice improvement over:
Several days to several weeks
Management may include:
Activity modification
Exercise
Mobility work
Education
Short-term treatment support
Moderate Cases
Patients with ongoing symptoms may require:
Several weeks to several months
Treatment may involve:
Spinal decompression where appropriate
Progressive exercise rehabilitation
Strengthening
Lifestyle changes
Persistent or Long-Term Cases
Chronic symptoms may require a longer-term approach focused on:
Improving function
Building strength
Managing flare-ups
Maintaining activity levels
The goal is often not eliminating every degenerative change but improving quality of life and helping people stay active.
What Does the Research Say About Spinal Decompression for Posterior Facet Arthrosis?
The evidence surrounding spinal decompression is developing, and research quality varies depending on the condition being studied.
For posterior facet arthrosis specifically, there is currently limited direct research evaluating spinal decompression as an isolated treatment. Most available evidence examines related conditions such as chronic low back pain, degenerative spinal changes, disc-related conditions and mechanical spinal disorders.
Current research suggests that spinal decompression or traction-based treatments may provide symptom relief for some individuals, particularly when symptoms are influenced by mechanical loading of spinal structures. However, results are not consistent for every patient, and treatment outcomes depend on many individual factors.
Systematic Reviews and Research Findings
Research reviews investigating spinal traction and decompression have reported mixed findings.
Some studies suggest:
Mechanical traction may provide short-term improvements in pain for selected patients with low back pain.
Some individuals with disc-related conditions may experience improvements when traction is combined with exercise-based rehabilitation.
Outcomes may be better when decompression is included as part of a broader treatment approach.
However, other reviews have found:
Limited evidence supporting long-term benefits from traction alone.
Variation between treatment methods, protocols and patient groups.
A need for larger, higher-quality clinical trials.
Because posterior facet arthrosis involves joint degeneration rather than a single isolated problem, treatment should focus on the individual patient rather than relying on one intervention.
Australian Statistics
Posterior facet arthrosis is part of the broader group of spinal degenerative conditions, including spinal osteoarthritis and degenerative changes affecting the lumbar and cervical spine.
Reliable Australian statistics specifically measuring posterior facet arthrosis alone are limited because it is usually reported within broader categories of back pain and osteoarthritis.
Key Australian data indicates:
Low back pain is one of the leading causes of disability in Australia.
Around 4 million Australians experience back problems at any given time.
Back pain affects people across all age groups but becomes more common with increasing age.
Degenerative spinal changes are frequently identified on imaging, particularly in older adults, even when symptoms are absent.
Because imaging findings do not always correlate directly with pain, assessment of symptoms, movement and function remains important when developing a treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is posterior facet arthrosis?
Posterior facet arthrosis is degenerative change affecting the small joints located at the back of the spine. These joints help guide movement and provide stability. Over time, they may develop cartilage wear, inflammation and structural changes that can contribute to pain and stiffness.
2. Can spinal decompression treat posterior facet arthrosis?
Spinal decompression does not reverse arthritis or rebuild damaged joint cartilage. However, it may help some suitable patients by reducing spinal loading, improving movement tolerance and supporting a broader rehabilitation program.
3. Is spinal decompression painful?
Most patients find spinal decompression comfortable. The treatment generally involves a gentle stretching or unloading sensation. Treatment intensity can be adjusted based on comfort and individual response.
4. How many spinal decompression sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on factors such as:
Severity of symptoms
Duration of the condition
Response to treatment
Overall health
Rehabilitation goals
Your chiropractor can discuss a personalised approach after assessment.
5. Does posterior facet arthrosis always cause pain?
No. Many people have degenerative changes visible on imaging without experiencing symptoms. Pain depends on many factors, including joint irritation, surrounding muscles, nervous system sensitivity and lifestyle factors.
6. Is spinal decompression better than exercise for facet arthrosis?
Spinal decompression and exercise serve different purposes. Exercise is considered an important component of long-term spinal health, while decompression may be used as an additional therapy for selected patients who may benefit from temporary unloading.
7. Can posterior facet arthrosis cause sciatica?
Facet arthrosis itself does not always cause sciatica. Sciatica usually involves irritation or compression of spinal nerve roots. However, degenerative changes around the spine may sometimes contribute to conditions that affect nerves.
8. Should I get an MRI if I have posterior facet arthrosis?
Not everyone with spinal pain requires imaging. Imaging decisions depend on symptoms, clinical findings, injury history and whether there are signs requiring further investigation.
Your healthcare provider can advise whether imaging is appropriate.
9. Can I exercise if I have posterior facet arthrosis?
In most cases, appropriate exercise is encouraged. The right exercises depend on your symptoms, fitness level and assessment findings. Gradual progression is usually recommended.
10. When should I see a doctor about spinal pain?
Medical assessment is recommended if you experience:
Significant trauma
Progressive weakness
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Unexplained weight loss
Fever
Severe or worsening neurological symptoms
Posterior facet arthrosis can affect people differently, and finding the right approach begins with understanding the cause of your symptoms.
At Health Wise Chiropractic, our practitioners provide personalised assessments to determine whether spinal decompression or other evidence-informed treatments may be appropriate for your condition.
We consider your symptoms, movement patterns, lifestyle and health goals when developing a management plan. Treatment may include spinal decompression, chiropractic care, rehabilitation exercises and advice to support long-term spinal function.
If you are experiencing ongoing stiffness, discomfort or reduced mobility associated with posterior facet arthrosis, contact Health Wise Chiropractic in Sunbury or Melton to arrange an assessment.
Book online today or speak with our team to find out how we can help you take the next step towards improved movement and function.