Abnormality of spinal facet joint Facet joint arthrosis Facet arthritis Osteoarthritis of facet joints in the spine. Degeneration of cartilage in the facet joints results in bone rubbing on bone and reactive new bone formation visible on X-ray. UMLS:C4280734 Facet joint osteoarthritis (FJ OA) is intimately linked to degenerative disk disease, which affects structures in the anterior aspect of the vertebral column. FJ OA and degenerative disk disease are both common causes of back and neck pain.