Lumbar Spondylosis in Mona Vale
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra sits slightly forward relative to the vertebra below it. Some people have no symptoms, while others experience lower back pain, stiffness or symptoms into the legs. Treatment focuses on improving symptoms, strength and your ability to stay active rather than trying to change the position of the vertebra.
What is Lumbar Spondylosis ?
Spondylolisthesis most commonly affects the lower lumbar spine and can develop for several reasons, including changes to the vertebrae during growth, repetitive loading or age-related changes in the spine.
The amount of vertebral slippage seen on imaging does not always correspond with the severity of symptoms. Many people with spondylolisthesis remain active and function well with appropriate management and rehabilitation.
Common Symptoms
Lower back pain or stiffness
Pain aggravated by certain movements or activities
Discomfort with prolonged standing or walking
Pain into the buttock or legs
Reduced tolerance for lifting or exercise
Occasionally numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs
How We Assess Lumbar Spondylosis
Degenerative changes on imaging do not necessarily explain why someone is experiencing pain. Different structures can produce similar symptoms, and factors such as strength, movement and activity tolerance may also contribute.
Assessment may include lumbar and hip movement, strength testing, neurological screening and movements or activities that reproduce your symptoms.
The aim is to understand what is contributing to your current symptoms and identify the factors that can be addressed through treatment and rehabilitation.
How We Treat Lumbar Spondylosis
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Exercise rehabilitation
Strength and mobility exercises
Activity and load modification
Gradual return to work, gym or sport
Education and self-management
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Lumbar spondylosis is a broad term describing age-related changes in the lower spine. This can include osteoarthritis of the facet joints as well as changes to the spinal discs and surrounding bone.
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Changes seen on imaging often increase with age, but this does not mean your pain or function will necessarily worsen. Many people with significant degenerative changes remain active with little or no pain.
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Yes. Regular movement and progressive strengthening can improve physical capacity, mobility and tolerance for everyday activities, even when structural changes remain visible on imaging.
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Usually not. Lifting and strengthening can often be continued or gradually reintroduced. The appropriate starting point depends on your symptoms, current capacity and the activities you want to return to.
Common Questions
Is Back Stiffness or Pain Holding You Back?
If persistent lower back symptoms are affecting your work, training or everyday activities, we can assess what's contributing and develop a treatment and rehabilitation plan.