Spondylolisthesis – Integrated Pain Solutions

Spondylolisthesis refers to the forward slip of a vertebra over the one just below it. The different grades of slippage, from grade 1 to grade 4, have various degrees of associated pain producing expectations. Some people have no pain at all with this condition. For example, a grade 1 slip, which is less than 25% of movement of one vertebral body over the other, is often asymptomatic. However, a grade 4 slip, where there’s essentially a complete disassociation of one vertebral body from the neighboring one, will result in severe pain and neurological deficits, including paralysis, as the spinal canal essentially gets obliterated. An ordinary x-ray can detect this condition, with dynamic motion detected on comparison of flexion film (leaning forward) and extension film (leaning backward). Compression of the nerves, and hence pain with neurological complaints becomes more evident with a more advanced “slip.”

Low back and leg pain are common symptoms of degenerative spondylolisthesis. They are made worse with bending activities. There are several non-surgical treatments that have had success in holding pain at bay, such as exercise, braces, injections and medications. Very few patients require surgery, unless they are extremely, painfully symptomatic, in which case surgical fusion may be necessary. Sometimes spondylolisthesis doesn’t even require treatment, and will “auto-fuse” on its own, therefore guaranteeing no further slippage. If the vertebra isn’t expected to slip more, the patient might just need to rest and to stop doing activities that cause pain.

If you feel you may be suffering from spondylolisthesis, make an appointment to come see us at Integrated Pain Solutions today.  We can help you get out of pain and go on to live your life pain free.

Our friendly staff at IPSSF is prepared to provide you with excellent services at both our East Fort Lauderdale and Sunrise, Florida locations.