Which of the following is NOT typically included in facet dysfunction treatment?

Which of the following is NOT typically included in facet dysfunction treatment?

• A. Facet joint mobilization
• B. McKenzie extension exercises
• C. Passive rotation
• D. Abdominal strengthening

Answer: (B)

Facet dysfunction is typically treated by improving facet joint mobility and supporting the spine through core stability. The joints themselves are helped by techniques that glide and mobilize them, and by strengthening the muscles around the spine to reduce abnormal loading during movement. Passive rotation is a common manual technique to address facet joint mobility, and abdominal strengthening supports the spine so the facet joints aren’t stressed as much during daily activities. McKenzie extension exercises, however, are designed to load the spine in extension to centralize symptoms often associated with disc derangements or nerve root irritation. For facet joint pain, this extension-focused loading can aggravate the irritated facet joints rather than address the underlying issue, so it isn’t typically included as a primary treatment for facet dysfunction.

Facet dysfunction is typically treated by improving facet joint mobility and supporting the spine through core stability. The joints themselves are helped by techniques that glide and mobilize them, and by strengthening the muscles around the spine to reduce abnormal loading during movement. Passive rotation is a common manual technique to address facet joint mobility, and abdominal strengthening supports the spine so the facet joints aren’t stressed as much during daily activities.

McKenzie extension exercises, however, are designed to load the spine in extension to centralize symptoms often associated with disc derangements or nerve root irritation. For facet joint pain, this extension-focused loading can aggravate the irritated facet joints rather than address the underlying issue, so it isn’t typically included as a primary treatment for facet dysfunction.