Spondylolisthesis happens when one of your vertebrae (spinal bones) shifts on the vertebrae below it.

 

This causes an irregular stacking of the bones.

This can happen for a multitude of reasons: due to wear and tear (degeneration), trauma, bone defects, etc.

This can cause mechanical back pain (due to the disc and muscles), nerve irritation, or spinal cord problems.

 

Diagnosis

The success of treatment options depend on an accurate diagnosis, using a combination of but not limited to: physical exam, x-ray, CT scan, MRI, diagnostic injections, and EMG investigation.

Treatment

Treatment options include therapy, core strengthening, weight loss, injections, surgical decompression, or surgical fusion. All treatment options depend on the type of spondylolisthesis and a custom treatment plan is recommended for each and every patient.

 
 

FAQs

Spondylolisthesis

1. What is spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it. It can cause back/neck pain, arm/leg pain, or sometimes no symptoms at all.

2. What causes spondylolisthesis?

It can be caused by:

  • Congenital (dysplastic) defects from birth

  • Isthmic (stress fractures in the pars interarticularis)

  • Degenerative changes due to aging and arthritis

  • Trauma

  • Post-surgical instability

3. What are the symptoms?

  • Lower back/neck pain

  • Stiffness

  • Tight hamstrings

  • Pain, numbness, or tingling down the arms/legs (sciatica)

  • In severe cases, weakness or difficulty walking

4. How is spondylolisthesis diagnosed?

Usually through:

  • Physical examination

  • X-rays (to see vertebral slippage)

  • MRI or CT scan (to evaluate nerves and spinal canal)

5. What are the treatment options?

  • Non-surgical:

    • Physical therapy

    • Anti-inflammatory medications

    • Activity modification

    • Bracing (sometimes)

    • Injections (epidural steroid injections)

  • Surgical (if symptoms persist or worsen):

    • Decompression (free nerves by taking out tissue/bone)

    • Spinal fusion

6. Will I need surgery?

Not Always. Many people improve with conservative treatment. Surgery is usually considered if:

  • Conservative treatments fail

  • Symptoms are severe or progressive

  • Nerve compression causes significant leg symptoms or weakness

  • There's significant vertebral instability

7. Can I still exercise or play sports?

Yes, depending on the severity and symptoms. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and core strengthening are usually encouraged. High-impact sports may need to be limited, especially with higher-grade slips.

8. What is the recovery time after surgery?

  • Hospital stay: typically 1–2 days

  • Return to light activity: 1-2 weeks weeks

  • Full recovery: up to 6 months or more, depending on the severity, procedure, and patient health

9. Is spondylolisthesis permanent?

The structural change (vertebral bone slippage) is usually permanent, but symptoms can often be managed effectively. Surgery may stabilize the area if needed.

10. What’s the difference between spondylosis, spondylolysis, and spondylolisthesis?

  • Spondylosis = Age-related degenerative spine changes

  • Spondylolysis = Stress fracture in the pars interarticularis

  • Spondylolisthesis = One vertebra slipping forward over another