Facet joints are located in your spine. These joints are contain nerves that come out of your spinal cord and flow through said joint on the way to other parts of your body. Facet joints contain cartilage which acts almost like a cushion or lubricating device that prevents your vertebrae from grinding on each other. A facet joint injury can be from trauma, such a car accident, or from wear and tear. When the cartilage wears out, the joint becomes arthritic. Sometimes, a facet joint injury occurs in a car wreck because the joints were already worn and the wreck finishes it off. It is always important to explain to your doctor the full and complete history of your injury, so that he or she can provide the best treatment. Alabama law provides that an injury that is aggravated in a wreck is, in fact, related to the wreck. So clarifying to your doctor when the pain in whatever area of your body began is very important. Do not assume your doctor has “seen it all before.: Be very candid and forthright with you doctor about where you hurt, how bad it is, and when it began.