Degenerative Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one vertebra has slipped forward over another one below it. This misalignment can cause impingement of the spinal nerves and/or fatigue of the back muscles, and may result in lower back and/or leg pain.

Degenerative spondylolisthesis is the most common form of the disorder. With aging, your discs – the cushions between the vertebral bones – lose water, becoming less spongy and are less able to resist movement by the vertebrae. It’s more common in people over age 50, with women being twice as likely as men to be diagnosed.

Symptoms of Degenerative Spondylolisthesis

Symptoms of degenerative spondylolisthesis may include:

• Lower back and/or leg pain
• Sciatica nerve pain
• A shuffling gait when walking
• Weakness in the lower extremities
• Abnormal posture

Degenerative Spondylolisthesis Treatment

Call 330.835.5533 to schedule an appointment with the Summa spine specialist if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. If degenerative spondylolisthesis is established as a diagnosis, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following:

• Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
• Rest and a restriction of physical activity
• Injections (corticosteroids) to help reduce the pain and swelling
• Medications and analgesics to reduce pain and swelling

Surgery is an option if you have severe pain that doesn’t get better with nonsurgical treatment. Summa spine specialists practice minimally invasive spine surgery, a safer and effective alternative to traditional surgical options.

Without treatment, you may continue experiencing pain and eventually have permanent nerve damage. For more information, download the degenerative spondylolisthesis brochure or view the video here.