Facet joints are a specific type of joints located in the spine. These joints are formed by the bony projections (processes) of one vertebra fitting into the hollow of the vertebra above. The facet joints play a crucial role in allowing a certain degree of movement between the vertebrae, which contributes to the flexibility of the spine.
The seventh cranial nerve originates from structures in the brainstem and sends branches to the face, neck, salivary glands, and outer ear.
The facial nerve serves dual functions, both motor and sensory. It is responsible for controlling the neck muscles and the muscles involved in facial expressions. Additionally, it stimulates the production of saliva and transmits sensory information from the tongue and the outer ear.
When the facial nerve sustains damage, it leads to weakened facial muscles and, in certain instances, loss of taste. This type of damage is most likely caused by viral infections but can also occur in the case of a stroke.
Facial pain can arise from a wide range of causes, or it may manifest without any identifiable reason.
Facial pain often results from injuries like blows or cuts to the face. Additionally, infections are a common cause of facial pain. Sinusitis, which is the inflammation of the air spaces in facial bones, can lead to pain around the eyes and cheeks. Mumps can cause pain in the cheeks before visible swelling occurs, and the pain is typically felt in front of and/or below the ears. Furthermore, pain from a boil in the nose or ear can also be experienced in the face.
Facial pain is frequently attributed to dental and jaw issues, which are quite common. These problems may encompass severe tooth decay, an abscess, impacted wisdom teeth, or partial dislocation of the jaw.
Severe pain can arise from damage to any of the facial nerves. Nerve-related conditions can cause stabbing pain preceding the rash of herpes zoster (shingles) or intermittent shooting pain known as trigeminal neuralgia. Trigeminal neuralgia typically affects the cheek, lip, gum, or chin on one side of the face and is often triggered by touching the face or chewing.
Pain in the face can sometimes be caused by a disorder originating in another part of the body, leading to referred pain. For instance, angina pectoris, which is chest pain resulting from reduced blood supply to the heart muscle, may also cause pain in the jaw. Similarly, during a migraine headache, pain may extend to one side of the face. Additionally, facial pain that arises without a clear cause may occasionally be a symptom of depression.
Analgesic drugs, also known as painkillers, can offer temporary relief from pain. However, in the case of severe or persistent facial pain, seeking medical attention is necessary.