Treating Spondylolisthesis with Surgery

Spondylolisthesis is a wordy medical term for a pretty serious spinal condition in which a vertebrae moves out of place in relation to its adjacent vertebrae. This patient education article is focused entirely on spondylolisthesis – we’ll discuss the signs, symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this spinal condition.

Spondylolisthesis Definition & Symptoms

Spondylolisthesis occurs when one of the spinal vertebrae slips and slides over the below vertebrae. It is most often found in the lumbar (low back) region of the spine, but it can occur in any section of the spinal column. Spondylolisthesis can result from a number of factors including injury to the spinal cord, a congenital joint defect, stress fractures of the spine, or pre-existing arthritic conditions.

Here are some of the possible symptoms that may indicate a diagnosis of spondylolisthesis:

• Pain in the back, legs, and/or buttocks that intensifies when bending or twisting

• A numbing sensation in the legs

• Trouble walking

• Bladder or bowel control problems

The biggest concern with spondylolisthesis is that the sliding vertebrae can pinch the surrounding spinal nerves, leading to pain, loss of function, and potentially paralysis. That’s why spondylolisthesis should be treated right away after a diagnosis is reached.

Treating Spinal Spondylolisthesis

Treating spondylolisthesis depends on the patient in question and whole host of other factors. In the short-term, any pain from the condition can be controlled with over the counter or prescription painkillers. Various physical therapy exercises can also be beneficial for correcting or preventing the condition.

If there is any sustained or potential nerve damage resulting from the spondylolisthesis, surgery is typically the best option. A minimally invasive keyhole spinal decompression surgery can be utilized to take pressure off of the spinal nerves and preserve function. Inspired Spine’s revolutionary spinal procedures can be used for spinal decompression surgery, and offer less pain, faster recovery periods, and shorter hospital stays compared to other existing procedures. Find a provider in your area who performs Inspired Spine procedures.