Facet joint pain may cause an ache in the lower back, sometimes extending into the buttock or upper thigh. You may notice discomfort when twisting, leaning backwards or standing for extended periods. These symptoms are not specific to facet joint pain, so an assessment is important.
Yes. Facet joint-related pain can spread into the buttock and upper thigh. Pain travelling further down the leg, particularly with tingling, numbness or weakness, may indicate nerve involvement or another condition.
No. An MRI may show degenerative changes in the facet joints, but these findings do not prove that the joints are causing your symptoms. We interpret imaging alongside your clinical history and examination.
A diagnostic medial branch block involves injecting local anaesthetic around nerves that carry pain signals from the facet joints. We may use the response to help assess whether these joints contribute to your pain when radiofrequency denervation is being considered.
Radiofrequency denervation uses heat to interrupt pain signals from selected nerves supplying the facet joints. We consider it for carefully selected patients with chronic localised back pain when appropriate non-surgical treatment has not worked and a diagnostic medial branch block has been positive.
No. The procedure does not remove the underlying joint changes, and the nerves may recover over time. Pain relief and its duration vary, so we discuss the potential benefits, limitations and alternatives before treatment.
Yes. Exercise, appropriate activity, self-management and rehabilitation can help many people manage lower back pain. We consider a procedure only when the clinical findings and treatment history support it.
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Dr Rogers has had a rich and illustrious career so far, which is continuing to grow and develop. Everything Ralph has been involved in since qualifying has added value to his knowledge and experience, but there have been some impressive highlights to note:
2018 – Present Founder Medical Director: Rogers Regenerative Medical Group (RRMG)
2012 – 2024 Medical Advisor – National Basketball Association
2008 – 2018 Medical Director: The London Sports Injury Clinic London
2010-2011 First Team Doctor, Chelsea Football Club
2007- 2010 The Football Association (Team Physician for England under 19 and development squads)
2005-2006 Medical Advisor: Trinidad & Tobago World Cup Football Team
2002 – 2008 Club Doctor: Walsall Football Club, West Midlands England
1998 – 2009 Medical Director: Medical & Orthopaedic Sports Therapy,
2000 – 2005 Sports Physician: Warwickshire County Cricket Club, Birmingham
