Spondylolisthesis is a common cause of back pain. At least 4%-6% of American adults live with this condition, although the figures could be higher as some people have the disorder but don’t experience symptoms.
If you have chronic back pain, an accurate diagnosis is critical to getting the right treatment. Our team of expert chiropractors at Spinal Stenosis and Disc Center, Inc. in Santa Monica, California, can help.
We not only offer extensive diagnostic exams to identify spondylolisthesis, but we also provide fully personalized, state-of-the-art treatment plans to heal your back and relieve your symptoms.
A little spondylolisthesis background
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one of your vertebrae slips out of place onto the vertebra below. It can pinch nerves in your spine, causing pain and instability. Some of the warning signs of spondylolisthesis include:
- Lower back pain and stiffness
- Tightness and spasm in the hamstrings
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
- Problems walking or standing for a long time
- Pain when bending over
Your symptoms can range in severity, depending on the grade of your condition. The spondylolisthesis grade refers to the degree your vertebra has slipped out of place.
Grade I is a mild misalignment, and Grade V occurs when a vertebra has moved out of place completely and is barely connected to the vertebra below.
The three most common types of spondylolisthesis are congenital, isthmic, and degenerative.
Babies are born with congenital spondylolisthesis. Isthmic spondylolisthesis occurs when spondylolysis (fracture) causes bone weakness and compression fractures. The degenerative form of the disease develops as a result of age-related wear-and-tear.
As your spinal discs become dry and less flexible, your vertebrae are more likely to move out of place. You could also develop the condition following a traumatic injury or spinal surgery.
Treatment options for spondylolisthesis
Our chiropractors have years of experience in diagnosing and treating spondylolisthesis. Following your physical exam, they discuss your treatment options, which may include:
Advanced Chiropractic Treatments
We can identify the areas of your spine with restricted movement due to spondylolisthesis and apply controlled pressure. Spinal adjustments restore motion to your joints by stretching your muscles and connective tissue and stimulating your nervous system.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy aims to improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles and connective tissue supporting your spine.
Spondylolisthesis pain is often due to spasm and tightness in the muscles surrounding the injured part of your spine. Physiotherapy includes specific exercises and stretches to restore proper function to your back for long-term pain release.
Spinal decompression
We also offer state-of-the-art spinal decompression using the DRX9000® . The machine uses gentle force to stretch your spine. The treatment can release nerve impingement, boost circulation, and improve spinal alignment and stability.
If you have chronic lower back pain or other symptoms of spondylolisthesis, don’t delay treatment. Call our office or request a consultation online today.