Lumbar Spondylolisthesis 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 Spondylolisthesis ?
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 Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is identified on imaging, but the imaging finding alone does not tell us how much it is contributing to your symptoms.
Assessment may include lumbar and hip movement, neurological testing, strength testing and movements or activities that reproduce your symptoms.
The aim is to understand your individual presentation and identify the strength, movement and loading factors that can be addressed through treatment and rehabilitation.
How We Treat Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
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
Trunk and hip strengthening
Activity and load modification
Gradual return to work, gym or sport
Education and self-management
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Yes. Many people can manage spondylolisthesis without surgery using appropriate exercise, activity modification and symptom management. Surgery is generally considered in selected cases where symptoms are severe or neurological problems are progressing.
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Yes. Exercise can help improve trunk and hip strength, physical capacity and confidence with movement. Exercises should be progressed according to your symptoms and individual presentation.
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No. Manual therapy does not reposition a vertebra affected by spondylolisthesis. Treatment instead focuses on reducing symptoms and improving strength, movement and function.
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Often, yes. Having spondylolisthesis does not automatically mean you need to stop lifting. Loads and exercises may initially need to be modified before being progressively increased as your tolerance improves.
Common Questions
Is Spondylolisthesis Affecting Your Activity?
If pain around your lower back or pelvis is affecting your work, training or everyday activities, we can assess what's contributing and develop a treatment and rehabilitation plan.