What Is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one of the vertebrae (bones in the spine) slips out of its proper position and moves forward or backward in relation to the vertebra below it. This misalignment can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
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Lower back pain
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Muscle stiffness
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Nerve-related symptoms (e.g., tingling or numbness)
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Difficulty walking or moving comfortably
Causes of Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis can result from several underlying factors, such as:
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Degenerative changes in the spine due to aging
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Trauma or injury
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Congenital defects (present at birth)
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Stress fractures from repetitive motion (especially in athletes)
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Medical conditions like osteoporosis or arthritis
Grading Spondylolisthesis
The severity of spondylolisthesis is typically graded on a scale from Grade 1 to Grade 4:
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Grade 1 – Mild slippage (less than 25%)
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Grade 2 – Moderate slippage (25–50%)
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Grade 3 – Severe slippage (50–75%)
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Grade 4 – Very severe slippage (more than 75%)
Treatment Options
Treatment for spondylolisthesis depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms involved. Common options include:
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
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Prolotherapy: A regenerative injection technique that helps strengthen ligaments and stabilize the spine.
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Neural Therapy: A gentle, targeted treatment to reset nerve pathways and reduce pain.
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Exercise Therapy: Strengthening the core and improving posture can reduce strain on the spine.
2. Surgical Intervention
In more severe cases—especially if there is nerve compression or significant instability—surgery may be required to realign and stabilize the vertebrae.
Consult With a Specialist
Proper diagnosis and personalized treatment are essential. Dr. Alvin Philipose at Venturis Clinic in Oklahoma City specializes in non-surgical therapies such as Prolotherapy and neural therapy for spine-related conditions, including spondylolisthesis.
Call 405-848-7246 to schedule a consultation and find out which treatment is right for you.