Overview of Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a condition of the spine where one vertebrae slips or “falls over” another (scientifically termed “anterior displacement.”) Of all the parts of the spine, the lumbar spine is the most affected. There are several symptoms of Spondylolisthesis, but most of them are caused due to the effects of the displacement rather than the displacement itself. For example, individuals suffering from the disorder begin to develop a “waddling walk” due to postural deficiencies caused by tight hamstrings.

They begin to adopt a forward posture while walking. However, more serious concerns will be shooting pain near the lower back, extending all the way down – even towards the knee. Activities that place a strain on the back such as sneezing will also begin to be painful.

Spondylolisthesis is most common in older individuals and for this reason, surgery is often complicated and is not without a lot of hassles.

Severity of Spondylolisthesis

The most common form of Spondylolisthesis is the pre existing type that develops at an early age. Most of the time however, there are absolutely no symptoms and many people with this condition will go through life without knowing they have it. Indeed, radio graphs show that a lot of people suffer from this disorder and no one knows for sure why the symptoms manifest themselves in some and not in others. The ones that do become symptomatic however are classified into how much slippage has taken place. There are four different severity levels and each has its own special treatment.

Low grade Spondylolisthesis is also called Isthmic Spondylolisthesis and refers to a slippage of less than 50%

Treatment options

Surgery

Surgery is the last option for patients suffering from Spondylolisthesis. This is because the chances of complete success are low and can be complicated by other factors such as the patient’s age. Doctors themselves do not opt for surgery unless the sufferer has undergone other routes of treatment for several months first.

Chiropractic Care

Patients who have low back pain respond excellently to chiropractic care. Flexion distraction techniques have been effective in most patients and combined with several other procedures, there is a high chance of success. One of the key aims is to enhance stability through muscle training. Patients are taken through a gradation of exercises in different positions designed to allow their spine to stabilize slowly. Combined with Spinal Decompression, an experienced chiropractor can greatly help a patient recover quickly and without surgery. Find a chiropractor on our site and contact them now!