KUCHING – Neck pain is fast becoming one of the most common health issues faced by Malaysians, affecting both the young and the elderly. At the heart of this condition lies the cervical facet joint — the connection between the seven neck spine bones that allows movement such as looking up and down or turning side to side. While these joints give the neck its flexibility, they are also prone to wear and tear, leading to a condition widely known as cervical facet joint pain.
A Silent Problem Among Young and Old
Medical specialists note that cervical facet joint pain does not discriminate by age. For young adults, particularly office workers and students, the cause is often linked to micro trauma from prolonged sitting, poor posture, and excessive use of handheld gadgets. With smartphones and laptops now essential tools in daily life, more young people are reporting neck stiffness and pain earlier than previous generations.
Meanwhile, for the elderly, the condition is primarily linked to natural degeneration of the spine due to aging. This wear and tear reduces mobility and often comes with other health complications, further affecting their quality of life.
Symptoms That Go Beyond Neck Pain
Cervical facet joint pain is not just about discomfort in the neck. Patients often present with a triad of symptoms — neck pain, occipital pain (at the back of the head), and shoulder stiffness. In many cases, the condition is also associated with vertigo, dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), palpitations, jaw pain, indigestion, and even tingling sensations in the hands.
Treatment and Prevention
The gold standard treatment for cervical facet joint pain is radiofrequency treatment of the medial branch nerve. This minimally invasive procedure, performed under local anesthetic and sedation, targets the affected joint and provides relief for patients. As a daycare procedure, patients are usually able to return home the same day.
However, doctors strongly emphasize lifestyle changes as the first line of defense. Maintaining correct posture while sitting, working, and sleeping is crucial. Individuals are also advised to avoid carrying heavy loads, which can worsen cervical spine stress.
With Malaysia’s increasing reliance on digital gadgets, awareness and early management of neck health are more important than ever. Health experts warn that ignoring early signs of cervical facet joint pain may lead to chronic issues in later years, making prevention a shared responsibility for both young and old. – Dr Chen Chee Kean