What are facet joints?

Facet joints are special connections between the bones in your back that help you move smoothly and stay strong.

Imagine your spine is like a staircase, each step is a vertebra, or bone. Now, think of little doors on the sides of each step, those are the facet joints! These tiny doors let the steps talk to each other when you bend, twist, or stretch.

When you move your back, like reaching for a toy or bending down to tie your shoes, these facet joints help guide the motion. It's like having little hinges on the sides of each step in your staircase, they let the steps slide and turn without getting stuck.

If the facet joints get hurt or worn out, it’s like the doors on the stairs start to creak or stick. That can make moving uncomfortable, especially when you're playing or running around all day!