OPSA Essentials Practice Test

The key idea is protecting the injured facet joints while gradually restoring motion and spinal stability. After a facet joint sprain, the surrounding tissues are sensitive, so moving too much or too soon can worsen pain and delay healing. Starting with gentle movements helps maintain joint flexibility without stressing the injured tissues, and adding stabilization exercises strengthens the muscles that support the spine, reducing abnormal loading on the facet joints and improving posture.

Aggressive resistance training would place too much load on the healing tissues too early, risking increased pain and re-injury. Complete immobilization for weeks leads to stiffness, muscle weakness, and slower recovery. A hot soak alone doesn’t address the mechanical needs of healing nor restore stability.

So the best approach is to avoid aggravating movements and begin with gentle mobility and stabilization exercises to promote healing while rebuilding support around the spine.