Coping with Facet joint arthrosis

NayNay_

Hello All I have recently been diagnosed with facet joints arthrosis with small Cyst and along with other conditions and I am at a stage where I feel so depressed and anxious since this and my GP hasn’t been helpful and it’s left me feeling helpless and hopeless at this stage and I have chosen to come on here and see if anyone can give any advice and potentially help me to understand this condition more as I am aware it is arthritis but does this mean the condition will get worst over time etc & what’s the best ways in managing it as I just feel lost without the right support.

frogmorton

Hi @NayNay_

I'm sorry I don't know so much about this myself, but my ex MIL has it and she used to have steroid injections into her facet joints. Is it worth asking to be referred for that? Physio surely at the very least.

If you are having trouble with an unsupportive GP maybe you can see a different one at your practice or perhaps not go alone when you see them? On here we often recommend going with someone else who knows how you are suffering (not quite mob-handed, but you know what I mean). GPs are the holders of much power and it can equalise things a bit.

Take care

Toni x

PJoanne

Hello @NayNay_

Welcome to the forum.

Here is some information for you, it is worth giving the helpline a ring as well , they are very supportive and helpful.

https://versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-oa-of-the-spine/

Maybe there's some support in your local area?

https://versusarthritis.org/in-your-area/

Are you able to see a different GP at your practice, to see if they are more helpful. Also I wonder if it is worth paying for a private consultation with a rhuemy consultant, to get the information you want or pushing for a referal to one on the NHS. It's sad that the NHS might not be up to the job, but GP's are generalists not specailists.

Let us know how you get on.

Best wishes

Joanne