What is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis or spine slippage is a condition in which a vertebra bone is displaced forward of the one below it in the spine. This problem can cause both back pain and leg symptoms.
Symptoms of a Spondylolisthesis
It is common not to have any symptoms at all. For those who are symptomatic, they may experience low back pain after exercise and may feel weakness in their thigh or legs. Extreme spondylolisthesis may change the way you walk resulting in a waddle.
Treatment Options for Spondylolisthesis
The treatment of spondylolisthesis is usually non-surgical. Physical therapy to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles is the primary mode of treatment. Medication such as NSAIDS (aspirin, Aleve, etc.), steroids or narcotics can help with the pain and inflammation. Epidural injections can also be effective, especially with leg symptoms. Surgical treatment becomes necessary when conservative management fails. Surgery is especially effective for patients with leg symptoms.
Conservative Treatments:
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Surgical Treatments:
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