Facet Disease Advancing

I guess I just want to vent. I was diagnosed with facet disease in my lumbar region by a really good radiologist back in 2009 through a CT scan and received an SI injection. It seems as though my case in getting worse. My numbness is staying the same, however my mobility is decreasing.

I am also experiencing a new sound kind of like a popping every time I move to the point of annoyance. I have always had to "crack" my joints to offer myself relief up and down my spine as I have DDD as well and a whole array of bulging and herniated discs. This cracking started when I visited a chiropractor years ago, and I will never visit one again as I feel they make things worse, but this popping is different and it almost feels as though the swelling is causing the joints to touch and it's not a crack. I guess it's a new sound almost like a flipping sound and it won't stop.

I have pain as usual in my legs- typical sciatic issues and confirmed nerve damage from and EMG and NCV. I am not sure if this sound is a symptom of advancement of the issue or if I need a new MRI or something? Any ideas?  

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Possibly yes. This could be a sign of further degeneration with compression of nerves/ roots and may require further investigational studies to evaluate the situation. I would suggest consulting an orthopedician or a neurologist for a detailed evaluation and suggestion of an appropriate management plan.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!