As with any arthritis, the joint can become enlarged due to the degenerative process. Even small changes to the facet joint can narrow the intervertebral foramen, possibly impinging on the spinal nerve roots within. More advanced cases can involve severe inflammatory responses in the Z-joint, not unlike a swollen arthritic knee.
Similar to other forms of arthritis, the affected joint may enlarge due to degeneration. Even minor changes to the facet joints can narrow the intervertebral foramen, potentially compressing spinal nerve roots. In more serious cases, inflammation in the Z-joint resembles that seen in a swollen arthritic knee.