Spinal Decompression For facet Syndrome In Naperville IL

Quick Facts: Facet Syndrome

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Back pain affects nearly 40% of U.S. adults each year.¹⁵

You used to twist around to check your blind spot without thinking. Now that simple motion sends a sharp jolt through your lower back. Bending backward to look up at the sky? Forget it. The pain stops you cold.

If your back pain gets worse when you arch, twist, or stand too long—but eases when you sit or lean forward—there’s a good chance your facet joints are the culprit.

Here’s the thing: facet syndrome responds well to the right treatment. And at Synergy Institute in Naperville, we’ve been helping patients find relief since 2002.

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What Is Facet Syndrome?

Facet syndrome is a condition where the small joints connecting each vertebra become inflamed, damaged, or arthritic. These joints—called facet joints or zygapophyseal joints—allow your spine to bend and twist. When they break down, the result is localized pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Research suggests facet joints cause 15-45% of chronic low back pain cases.¹⁴

Think of your spine as a stack of building blocks. Each block—each vertebra—connects to the ones above and below through three points: the disc in front, two facet joints in back. That’s what spine specialists call the “three-joint complex.” And it matters.

Your facet joints do a lot of heavy lifting. They guide spinal movement, bear weight when you stand or arch backward, and prevent your vertebrae from slipping out of place. Each joint is lined with cartilage and surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid—the same setup as your knee or hip.

The problem? These joints wear down over time.

When cartilage thins and inflammation sets in, every twist and bend irritates the joint. Bone spurs may develop. The joint capsule gets inflamed. And you end up with that deep, aching pain that just won’t quit.

In my 25 years of practice, I’ve seen this pattern hundreds of times. The good news? It’s very treatable.

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Symptoms of Facet Syndrome

The classic sign of facet syndrome? Pain that gets worse when you extend or twist your spine—and eases up when you bend forward or sit down.

But facet pain shows up differently depending on where the problem is.

Lumbar Facet Syndrome (Lower Back)

• Deep, aching pain in the lower back, often on one side
• Stiffness that’s worst in the morning or after sitting
• Pain that shoots into the buttocks or upper thighs (but rarely below the knee)
• Discomfort when standing for long periods
• Sharp pain when arching backward or twisting
• A grinding or catching sensation with certain movements

Cervical Facet Syndrome (Neck)

• Neck pain that radiates to the shoulders or between the shoulder blades
• Headaches starting at the base of the skull
• Difficulty turning your head fully to one side
• Pain when looking up or tilting your head back

Here’s what I tell patients: facet pain tends to come and go. You might have a bad flare-up for a few days, then feel mostly fine for weeks. That unpredictable pattern is actually a clue that points toward the facet joints.

One thing facet syndrome usually doesn’t cause? True nerve symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness running down your leg. If you’re experiencing those, there may be something else going on—possibly in addition to facet problems.

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🚨 SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION IF YOU EXPERIENCE:

• Sudden loss of bowel or bladder control
• Progressive weakness or numbness in both legs
• Severe pain following a fall, accident, or trauma
• Back pain accompanied by fever
• Unexplained weight loss with back pain

These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring emergency care. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

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What Causes Facet Syndrome?

Facet syndrome usually comes down to one word: wear.

Your facet joints handle thousands of movements every day. Over decades, that adds up. The cartilage lining the joint gradually thins. The protective synovial fluid decreases.

Inflammation builds. And eventually, the joint surfaces start grinding against each other.

This is essentially osteoarthritis of the spine—and it’s the most common cause of facet syndrome.¹

But age isn’t the only factor. Several things can speed up the process:

Primary Causes

• Degenerative disc disease — When discs lose height, more stress shifts to the facet joints²
• Osteoarthritis — General joint degeneration affecting the spine
• Previous injury — Whiplash, falls, or sports injuries that damage the joint

Risk Factors

• Age over 50 (facet arthritis prevalence increases significantly after this age)¹⁶
• Excess body weight — more load on spinal joints
• Jobs requiring repetitive twisting, lifting, or bending
• Poor posture — especially prolonged sitting or forward head position
• Genetics — some people are simply predisposed to joint degeneration
• Sedentary lifestyle — weak core muscles mean more stress on joints

The bottom line? Most facet syndrome develops gradually over years. That’s actually good news—it means there’s usually time to intervene before things get severe.

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How Is Facet Syndrome Diagnosed?

Diagnosing facet syndrome takes detective work. No single test confirms it. So we piece together clues—your history, physical exam, imaging, sometimes diagnostic injections.

Physical Examination

This is where we start. I’ll ask you to bend, twist, and extend your spine while I watch for pain patterns. Facet problems typically hurt more with extension (leaning back) and rotation. There’s often tenderness when I press directly over the affected joints.

Imaging Studies

• X-rays can show bone spurs, joint space narrowing, and arthritic changes
• MRI gives us a detailed look at soft tissues, discs, and joint inflammation
• CT scans provide the clearest view of bone and joint structure

But here’s the thing—imaging doesn’t always tell the whole story. Many people have facet joint changes on MRI but no pain. And some people with significant pain show minimal changes.³

Diagnostic Medial Branch Block

This is the gold standard. A physician injects a small amount of numbing medication near the nerves supplying your facet joints. If your pain disappears temporarily (even for a few hours), that confirms the facet joints are the source. Studies show this test is 75-85% accurate for identifying facet-related pain.⁴

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Diagnosis Cost Comparison

*Costs vary based on facility, insurance coverage, and location. Many insurance plans cover diagnostic imaging when medically necessary. Contact your provider for specific coverage details.

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Treatment Options for Facet Syndrome

When it comes to treating facet syndrome, you’ve got options—ranging from simple self-care to surgical intervention. The right approach depends on how severe your symptoms are, how long you’ve been dealing with them, and what’s actually happening inside the joint.

Let me be straight with you: most people don’t need surgery. In fact, conservative treatments work well for the majority of facet syndrome cases.⁵

Here’s how the options stack up:

Treatment Comparison

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine which treatment approach is right for your specific condition.

The Conservative-First Approach

At Synergy Institute, we always start with the least invasive options that have the best chance of working. Why? Because most facet syndrome responds beautifully to conservative care—and you avoid the risks, costs, and recovery time that come with more aggressive treatments.

Here’s the progression we typically follow:

Phase 1: Reduce acute pain and inflammation

Phase 2: Address underlying mechanical issues (alignment, decompression)

Phase 3: Strengthen and stabilize for long-term prevention

Surgery becomes a conversation only when conservative treatments haven’t provided adequate relief after several months—and that’s rare in my experience.

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How Spinal Decompression Helps Facet Syndrome

So how does spinal decompression actually help facet joints? It comes down to simple physics: reducing compression and creating space.

The Mechanism

Your facet joints sit at the back of your spine. When discs lose height or degenerate, more weight shifts onto these small joints—sometimes dramatically. They weren’t designed to handle that much load. The result? Accelerated wear, inflammation, and pain.

Spinal decompression therapy gently stretches the spine using computerized traction. This creates negative pressure within the disc space and—here’s the key part—takes stress off the overloaded facet joints.⁶

Think of it this way: you’ve been carrying a heavy backpack all day. Finally, you set it down. Your whole spine sighs with relief. Decompression does something similar, but in a controlled, targeted way.

What the Research Shows

Studies on non-surgical spinal decompression have shown promising results for conditions involving spinal compression:

• Patients with disc-related back pain showed significant improvement in 71-89% of cases.⁷
• Decompression therapy reduced intradiscal pressure by as much as -150 mmHg in some studies.⁸
• Many patients report decreased pain and improved function within the first few weeks of treatment

For facet syndrome specifically, decompression works best when there’s also disc involvement—which is common, since disc degeneration and facet arthritis often go hand in hand.

Why It Works for Facet Pain

When we decompress your spine:

1. Reduced joint loading — Less compression means less grinding and irritation
2. Improved disc height — Takes pressure off facet joints
3. Enhanced circulation — Better blood flow promotes healing
4. Decreased inflammation — Less mechanical stress means less inflammatory response
5. Improved mobility — Patients often notice better range of motion

I’ve been offering spinal decompression at Synergy Institute since 2002—we were the first clinic in Illinois to bring this technology to patients. In that time, I’ve seen it help hundreds of people with facet-related pain who thought their only options were injections or surgery.

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Synergy’s Integrative Approach to Facet Syndrome

Here’s what sets Synergy Institute apart from other clinics in Naperville: we don’t rely on just one treatment. Facet syndrome rarely has a single cause, so why would a single treatment be enough?

When you come to our clinic, Dr. Jennifer Wise develops a customized plan that combines multiple therapies—each targeting a different aspect of your condition. It’s not about throwing everything at the wall. It’s about using the right combination for your specific situation.

Spinal Decompression Therapy

Our Back On Trac decompression system delivers precise, computer-controlled traction to decompress your spine. Unlike older traction methods, this technology adjusts in real-time based on your body’s response. The goal: reduce the load on your facet joints while improving disc hydration and spinal alignment.

We were the first clinic in Illinois to offer spinal decompression back in 2002. In the years since, I’ve refined our protocols based on what actually works—not just what looks good on paper.

Chiropractic Care

Misaligned vertebrae put extra stress on facet joints. Chiropractic adjustments restore proper alignment, improve joint mobility, and reduce nerve irritation.⁹ For facet syndrome, we focus on gentle, specific corrections rather than aggressive manipulation.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture isn’t just for relaxation. Research from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health shows acupuncture can effectively reduce chronic back pain and inflammation.¹⁰ We use acupuncture to calm the nervous system, decrease muscle spasms, and enhance your body’s natural healing response.

Class IV Laser Therapy

This advanced technology delivers light energy deep into tissues, promoting cellular repair and reducing inflammation at the source.¹¹ For inflamed facet joints, laser therapy can speed healing and provide pain relief without medication.

The Synergy Difference

Most patients don’t need all four treatments. But having them available under one roof—with one doctor coordinating your care—means we can adjust your plan as you progress.

What I’ve learned after treating thousands of patients: the integrative approach consistently outperforms any single therapy alone. Your body is complex. Your treatment should be too.

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What to Expect: Your Treatment Timeline

One of the first questions patients ask: “How long until I feel better?”

The honest answer? It depends. But I can give you a realistic framework based on what I see in practice.

Most facet syndrome cases follow a predictable pattern when treated properly. Here’s what a typical treatment timeline looks like:

Treatment Timeline

What This Means for You

• First 2 weeks: Most patients notice some improvement—less intense pain, better sleep, easier movement
• Weeks 3-6: This is typically when significant progress happens
• Weeks 8-12: Many patients reach their treatment goals and transition to maintenance

Some people respond faster. Some take longer. Age, overall health, how long you’ve had symptoms, and how closely you follow your home care instructions all play a role.

But here’s what I can promise: if we’re not seeing progress within the first few weeks, we’ll reassess and adjust your plan. I don’t believe in stringing patients along with treatment that isn’t working.

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Who Should NOT Get Spinal Decompression

I’m going to be honest—spinal decompression isn’t right for everyone. And I’d rather tell you that upfront than waste your time and money on treatment that won’t help you.

Spinal decompression is NOT recommended if you have:

• Spinal fractures (current or recent)
• Spinal tumors or cancer affecting the spine
• Severe osteoporosis with significant bone density loss
• Spinal fusion hardware in the area to be treated
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Pregnancy
• Spinal infections
• Certain types of spinal instability (spondylolisthesis grade 3 or higher)

You may need modified treatment if you have:

• Artificial disc implants
• Previous spinal surgery (case-by-case evaluation)
• Advanced arthritis with bone-on-bone changes
• Certain neurological conditions

This is why we do a thorough evaluation before recommending any treatment. If I don’t think we can help you, I’ll tell you—and I’ll point you toward someone who can.

That’s just how we operate at Synergy Institute.

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Home Remedies & Self-Care for Facet Syndrome

Professional treatment works best. But there’s plenty you can do at home to manage flare-ups and support your recovery between visits.

For Acute Pain Flare-Ups

• Ice for the first 48-72 hours — 15-20 minutes at a time, several times daily
• Heat after the initial inflammation settles — helps relax tight muscles
• Gentle movement — short walks are better than bed rest
• Anti-inflammatory medications — over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help (check with your doctor first)

For Ongoing Management

• Avoid prolonged extension — limit activities that arch your back
• Core strengthening — a strong core takes stress off facet joints¹⁷
• Posture awareness — especially when sitting at a desk or driving
• Sleep position — try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees
• Maintain healthy weight — every extra pound adds stress to your spine

Gentle Stretches That May Help

• Knee-to-chest stretches
• Cat-cow stretches (yoga)
• Seated spinal rotation (gentle)
• Child’s pose

One important note: if home remedies aren’t providing relief within a week or two—or if your pain is getting worse—it’s time to get professional help. Don’t push through severe pain.

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Why Naperville Patients Choose Synergy Institute

Naperville has no shortage of chiropractors. So why do patients from across DuPage and Will County choose Synergy Institute for their facet syndrome treatment?

Experience that matters. Dr. Jennifer Wise has been practicing since 2000—over 25 years of helping patients find relief from spinal conditions. She’s a Palmer College of Chiropractic graduate with advanced training in spinal decompression, acupuncture, and integrative pain management.

Technology others don’t have. We brought spinal decompression to Illinois in 2002, before most clinics even knew it existed. Today, we continue investing in advanced treatments like Class IV laser therapy.

Everything under one roof. Chiropractic, acupuncture, decompression, laser therapy, physical rehabilitation—you won’t get bounced between multiple providers. One team. One coordinated plan.

Real results, documented. We track outcomes. If something isn’t working, we change course. No cookie-cutter protocols.

Convenient location. Our clinic at 4931 Illinois Route 59 is easy to reach from Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Aurora, Oswego, Warrenville, and Lisle.

Patients tell us they appreciate that we’re honest about what we can—and can’t—help with. That trust is something we’ve built over two decades in this community.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Facet Syndrome

Q: What is facet syndrome?

Facet syndrome is a condition where the small joints connecting your vertebrae become inflamed, damaged, or arthritic. These facet joints allow your spine to bend and twist. When they wear down, the result is localized back or neck pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.

Q: Does facet syndrome go away on its own?

Sometimes mild facet pain resolves with rest and self-care. But true facet syndrome—where there’s actual joint degeneration—doesn’t reverse itself. The good news: proper treatment can significantly reduce pain and prevent the condition from worsening. Most patients respond well to conservative care.

Q: What does facet syndrome pain feel like?

Facet pain is typically a deep, aching discomfort localized to one side of your spine. It gets worse when you arch backward, twist, or stand for long periods. Sitting or bending forward usually provides relief. You may also feel stiffness first thing in the morning.

Q: Is facet syndrome the same as arthritis?

Essentially, yes. Facet syndrome is osteoarthritis affecting the facet joints of your spine. The same process that causes arthritic knees or hips—cartilage breakdown, inflammation, bone spur formation—happens in your spinal joints too.

Q: Can chiropractors help facet syndrome?

Yes. Chiropractic care is one of the most effective conservative treatments for facet syndrome. Adjustments restore proper joint alignment, reduce nerve irritation, and improve mobility. Research supports chiropractic care for back pain, including facet-related pain.¹²

Q: Does spinal decompression work for facet syndrome?

Spinal decompression can help facet syndrome, especially when disc degeneration is also involved. The therapy reduces compression on overloaded facet joints, decreases inflammation, and promotes healing. Many patients experience significant improvement within 6-12 weeks.¹³

Q: How many decompression sessions will I need?

Most treatment plans involve 15-25 sessions over 6-12 weeks. Some patients notice improvement within the first few visits; others take longer. We’ll reassess your progress regularly and adjust as needed.

Q: Does insurance cover spinal decompression?

Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance policies cover spinal decompression therapy; others don’t. We recommend calling your insurance provider directly. Our staff can also help verify your benefits before you begin treatment.

Q: How much does facet syndrome treatment cost in Naperville?

Treatment costs depend on what’s needed. An initial consultation and exam typically runs $75-$200. Spinal decompression sessions may range from $50-$150 each, depending on your plan. We offer package pricing and can discuss payment options during your consultation.

Q: Who should NOT get spinal decompression?

Spinal decompression isn’t appropriate for everyone. It’s not recommended if you have spinal fractures, tumors, severe osteoporosis, spinal fusion hardware, pregnancy, or certain types of spinal instability. We screen carefully before recommending any treatment.

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Take the Next Step: Schedule Your Consultation

You don’t have to live with facet syndrome pain. And you don’t have to choose between popping pills forever and going under the knife.

At Synergy Institute, we’ve helped thousands of Naperville-area patients find relief through non-surgical, drug-free treatments. Dr. Wise will evaluate your condition, explain your options honestly, and develop a plan tailored to your needs.

Ready to find out if we can help?

📞 Call or text: (630) 454-1300

Synergy Institute Acupuncture & Chiropractic 4931 Illinois Route 59, Suite 121 Naperville, IL 60564

New patient consultations available. Most insurance accepted.

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any treatment program, making changes to your current treatment, or if you have questions about a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

The treatment outcomes described in this article are based on clinical experience and published research. Individual results may vary. The effectiveness of any treatment depends on many factors, including the severity of your condition, your overall health, and how closely you follow your treatment plan.

Synergy Institute Acupuncture & Chiropractic and Dr. Jennifer Wise, DC, do not guarantee specific results. The testimonials and case studies referenced represent individual experiences and are not intended to represent or guarantee that anyone will achieve the same or similar results.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

Synergy Institute Acupuncture & Chiropractic 4931 Illinois Route 59, Suite 121 Naperville, IL 60564 (630) 454-1300

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References

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2. Fujiwara A, Tamai K, An HS, et al. The relationship between disc degeneration, facet joint osteoarthritis, and stability of the degenerative lumbar spine. Journal of Spinal Disorders. 2000;13(5):444-450. doi:10.1097/00002517-200010000-00013
3. Kalichman L, Li L, Kim DH, et al. Facet joint osteoarthritis and low back pain in the community-based population. Spine. 2008;33(23):2560-2565. doi:10.1097/BRS.0b013e318184ef95
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9. Goertz CM, Long CR, Vining RD, et al. Effect of usual medical care plus chiropractic care vs usual medical care alone on pain and disability among US service members with low back pain. JAMA Network Open. 2018;1(1):e180105. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2018.0105
10. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Acupuncture: What You Need to Know. NCCIH. Updated October 2024. Accessed January 2026. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-what-you-need-to-know
11. Cotler HB, Chow RT, Hamblin MR, Carroll J. The use of low level laser therapy (LLLT) for musculoskeletal pain. MOJ Orthopedics & Rheumatology. 2015;2(5):00068. doi:10.15406/mojor.2015.02.00068
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13. Apfel CC, Cakmakkaya OS, Martin W, et al. Restoration of disk height through non-surgical spinal decompression is associated with decreased discogenic low back pain. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2010;11:155. doi:10.1186/1471-2474-11-155
14. Cohen SP, Raja SN. Pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of lumbar zygapophysial (facet) joint pain. Anesthesiology. 2007;106(3):591-614. doi:10.1097/00000542-200703000-00024
15. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Pain and High-Impact Chronic Pain Among U.S. Adults, 2019. NCHS Data Brief No. 390. November 2020. Accessed January 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db390.htm
16. Manchikanti L, Boswell MV, Singh V, et al. Prevalence of facet joint pain in chronic spinal pain of cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2004;5:15. doi:10.1186/1471-2474-5-15
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