Facet joints
Facet Joints
Facet joints (pronunciation: /ˈfæsɪt/), also known as zygapophysial joints or Z-joints, are a set of synovial, cartilaginous joints located between the articular processes of two adjacent vertebrae.
Etymology
The term "facet" is derived from the French word "facette", meaning "small face". This refers to the flat surfaces of the joints that face each other. The term "zygapophysial" is derived from the Greek words "zygon", meaning "yoke", and "physis", meaning "nature" or "growth". This refers to the yoke-like structure that the joints form.
Anatomy
Facet joints are paired (one on each side) and are located on the posterior aspect of the vertebral column. They provide stability to the spine and limit its range of motion. Each facet joint is composed of two opposing bony surfaces with cartilage in between, and is surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid.
Related Terms
- Vertebrae: The individual bones that stack up to form the vertebral column or spine.
- Synovial Joint: A type of joint that is surrounded by a thick, flexible capsule filled with synovial fluid, which lubricates and nourishes the joint.
- Cartilage: A type of connective tissue that covers the surface of a bone at a joint.
- Spine: The series of vertebrae extending from the skull to the small of the back, enclosing the spinal cord and providing support for the thorax and abdomen; the backbone.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Facet joints
- Wikipedia's article - Facet joints
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