Facet Joints

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The spine's joints are called Facet Joints.  These joints are located behind each vertebral body. Facet joints help the spine to bend, twist, and extend in different directions. Although these joints enable movement, they also restrict excessive movement called hyperextension (excessive backward movement) and hyperflexion (excessive forward movement).

Each vertebra has two sets of facet joints.  The superior articular facet faces upward and works like a hinge with the inferior articular facet (below).

Similar to other joints in the body, each facet joint is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue and produces synovial fluid to nourish and lubricate the joint. The surfaces of the joint are coated with cartilage that helps each joint to move (articulate) smoothly.