Devices and methods for altering the spacing and motion at the facet joints of the vertebral column are provided. One embodiment of the invention comprises a device for treating spinal disorders while preserving movement at a facet joint, the device comprising a prosthesis (76) having a first face (82) and a second face (84), wherein the first face is adapted to be secured to the adjacent articular surface of a facet, and the second surface is configured for sliding contact with an adjacent structure, wherein the prosthesis includes a hole (78) located at an edge (86) of the prosthesis such that an interior surface of the hole is contiguous with an outer edge of the prosthesis.
