What are the Zygapophyseal joints also known as?

Zygapophyseal joints are commonly known as facet joints. These joints are located between the articular processes of adjacent vertebrae in the spinal column. They play a crucial role in facilitating movement and providing stability to the spine, allowing for flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending of the vertebral column.

The term "facet" refers to the small, flat surfaces that make up these joints, which articulate with each other to form a synovial joint. This design enables a significant range of motion while also helping to limit excessive movement that could lead to injury.

Understanding the function and anatomy of facet joints is vital for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, as issues with these joints can contribute to back pain and dysfunction, which they may frequently encounter in clinical practice.

The other choices refer to different types of joints or structures in the spinal anatomy. Intervertebral joints refer to the junctions between the vertebrae and the discs that act as shock absorbers. Ligamentous joints are not a specific joint type but refer to connections primarily stabilized by ligaments. Costovertebral joints involve the connection between the ribs and the vertebrae, specifically at the thoracic spine. Each has its unique function and anatomy,