Packers 2025-26 Season Thread

L4/L5 Facet Joint Sprain​

A sprain of the L4/L5 facet joint, located between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, is a common cause of lower back pain. This joint is part of the spine's "three-joint complex," which includes the intervertebral disc and the posterior paired synovial joints, and plays a crucial role in stabilizing the spine during movement. The L4/L5 level is the most common site for facet joint pain in the lumbar spine, followed by the L5-S1 level.

Symptoms of an L4/L5 facet joint sprain typically include a localized, dull ache in the lower back that worsens with activities involving spine extension (bending backward), twisting, or standing for prolonged periods. The pain is often relieved by bending forward (flexion). It may also be more severe in the morning upon waking or after periods of inactivity. The pain is usually centered on one side of the spine but can sometimes present as a dull ache on both sides. In some cases, the sprain can cause referred pain into the buttocks, hip, or even down the leg, although this pain typically does not extend below the knee and is not associated with neurological deficits.

The condition can be caused by sudden movements during loading, such as lifting, or by sustained awkward positions that place excessive strain on the joint. The facet joints are richly innervated with nociceptive nerves, which explains the pain associated with injury or degeneration. While the diagnosis is often suspected based on patient history and physical examination, particularly pain worsened by extension and palpation of the joint, confirmation typically requires a diagnostic procedure like a medial branch block. Imaging like MRI or CT scans can show degenerative changes but are not always definitive for the source of pain.
 
Little annoyed at the Nate Hobbs situation. I thought the point of the surgery was that he didn't need it but got it when he did so that he could be ready well in advance of the opener. Now it's Tuesday and he still isn't practicing. Little annoying.
 
rpiotr01 said:
Little annoyed at the Nate Hobbs situation. I thought the point of the surgery was that he didn't need it but got it when he did so that he could be ready well in advance of the opener. Now it's Tuesday and he still isn't practicing. Little annoying.
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What happens when you sign a injury prone CB.
 
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