Spondylolisthesis Treatment in St. Clair Shores, MI
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, most often in the lower back. It can cause low back pain, tight hamstrings and pain or numbness in the legs if a nerve is pinched. At Advanced Physical Medicine in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, we treat most cases without surgery.
Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis
Some people with a slipped vertebra have no symptoms at all. When symptoms appear, they often include:
- Low back pain that is worse when standing, walking or arching backward and better when sitting or bending forward
- Stiffness and tight hamstrings
- Pain, numbness or tingling down one or both legs (sciatica)
- Leg pain or heaviness when walking, similar to spinal stenosis
- Weakness in the legs
Signs that it may be getting worse include pain that spreads further down the leg, new numbness or weakness, and being able to walk shorter distances than before.
What Causes Spondylolisthesis?
There are several types, and the cause shapes treatment:
- Degenerative: the most common type in adults over 50, caused by wear of the discs and facet joints (arthritis)
- Isthmic: from a stress fracture in a small part of the vertebra, often from sports with repeated back arching such as gymnastics or football (see sports injuries)
- Congenital: from the way the spine formed before birth
- Traumatic or after surgery: from an injury or a previous spine operation
Anterolisthesis means the vertebra has slipped forward, which is the usual direction. Spondylosis is a different term for general wear and tear of the spine, which can lead to degenerative spondylolisthesis.
How We Treat Spondylolisthesis
Dr. Stephen Wilson, MD, is double board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine and has more than 25 years of experience treating pain. We review your X-rays or MRI, check your nerves and plan care that keeps you moving. Non-surgical options include:
Physical Therapy
Our physical therapy team focuses on core strength, hamstring and hip flexibility and posture, which can stabilize the spine and ease pain.
Epidural, Facet and Nerve Root Injections
Injections place anti-inflammatory medication at an irritated nerve or facet joint to reduce back and leg pain. See our interventional procedures.
MLS Laser and Massage
MLS laser therapy and massage therapy ease pain and muscle spasm so you can keep up with your exercises.
Spinal Cord Stimulation
For ongoing leg pain, including pain that remains after back surgery, spinal cord stimulation may be an option after a short trial.
Nerve Testing and Pain Management
Our in-office EMG and nerve conduction studies show whether nerves are affected, and a pain management plan ties treatment together.
When to See a Doctor for Spondylolisthesis
Book a visit if low back pain lasts more than a few weeks, keeps coming back, or comes with pain, numbness or tingling in the legs. If you already know you have spondylolisthesis, come in when symptoms change or walking distance shrinks. If your exam or imaging shows a high-grade slip or progressive nerve problems, we will refer you to a spine surgeon.
Get emergency care for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin, or sudden leg weakness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spondylolisthesis
What is the most effective treatment for spondylolisthesis?
Most people improve with non-surgical care: physical therapy, activity changes and, when needed, injections. Surgery is generally reserved for severe slips, nerve damage or pain that does not respond to other treatment.
Is walking bad for spondylolisthesis?
Walking is generally good for you. If walking brings on leg pain, shorter walks with rests, or a stationary bike that keeps you leaning slightly forward, may be easier.
What exercises should I avoid with spondylolisthesis or anterolisthesis?
Exercises that arch the back, such as back bends, heavy overhead lifting and some yoga poses, can increase stress on the slipped segment. A therapist can tailor a safe program for you.
What are the signs that spondylolisthesis is getting worse?
Pain spreading further down the leg, new numbness or weakness, a shrinking walking distance and changes in bladder or bowel control are reasons to be checked. The last one is an emergency.
How do you live with spondylolisthesis?
Stay active, keep a healthy weight, do your core and flexibility exercises regularly and avoid heavy lifting with a rounded or arched back. Most people lead full, active lives.
Do you accept insurance?
Advanced Physical Medicine accepts most major insurance plans. Some treatments, such as regenerative injections, may be self-pay, and our staff will go over coverage and costs with you before you start.
Get Help for Spondylolisthesis in St. Clair Shores
Book a visit with Advanced Physical Medicine at 24345 Harper Ave, St. Clair Shores, Michigan, or call us at (586) 563-3300. We will find out what is behind your spondylolisthesis and talk you through every option before anything is decided.
