Joint as a result of aging and the deterioration of articular cartilage. Furthermore, there is emerging evidence that abnormal anatomy may contribute to early development of osteoarthritis. Other forms of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, which are autoimmune diseases in which the body is attacking itself. Septic arthritis is caused by joint infection. Gouty arthritis is caused by deposition of uric acid crystals in the joint that results in subsequent inflammation. Additionally, there is a less common form of gout that is caused by the formation of rhomboidal-shaped crystals of calcium pyrophosphate. This form of gout is known as
Facet joint with large tracts of paraspinal muscles, further complicate the diagnostic approach. Typically facet joint arthritis is diagnosed with specialized physical examination by specialist physicians. Advanced imaging such as MRI or CT may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other conditions. Conservative treatment of facet joint arthritis involves chiropractic, physical therapy, or osteopathic medicine with correction of posture and biomechanics being the key. More advanced cases involving severe inflammatory response in the Z-joint, not unlike a swollen arthritic knee. Steroid injections may provide temporary pain relief. This is typically performed under image guidance to ensure accuracy given