Spondylolisthesis Pain Management Specialists
Spondylolisthesis
Condition Overview
When a vertebra slips out of its normal position and shifts forward or backward onto the vertebra below it, this condition is known as spondylolisthesis. This slippage can lead to nerve compression, resulting in pain in your back or legs and sensations of weakness or tingling, similar to when your foot falls asleep.
Spondylolisthesis can occur towards the front (anterior), back (posterior) or side of the spine and may result from aging, degenerative changes in the spine, osteoporosis, trauma or congenital disabilities.
If you have persistent back pain or other symptoms that sound like spondylolisthesis, it’s helpful to talk to a Nura pain specialist who can help determine the right course of treatment to help you move more comfortably.
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Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis
The most common symptoms of spondylolisthesis found by our specialists include dull and achy pain in the lower back. It can vary in intensity but is almost always strongest during activities that include bending, lifting or twisting. Other symptoms include:
- Pain that radiates down the legs. In some cases, the shooting or tingling sensation can extend from the lower back into the buttocks, thighs, or even down to your feet.
- Muscle tightness or stiffness. The muscles surrounding the affected vertebrae may become tense or stiff, limiting your ability to move comfortably.
- Weakness or numbness. Compression of spinal nerves due to vertebral slippage can lead to weakness or numbness in the legs, making it difficult to walk or perform daily activities as usual.
- Changes in posture or gait. Spondylolisthesis can affect the spine’s alignment, leading to noticeable changes in posture or how you walk.
Diagnosis of Spondylolisthesis
Diagnosing and determining the best possible treatment plan for your spondylolisthesis will begin with one of Nura’s pain specialists reviewing your medical history and gathering information about when and where you started experiencing your pain. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans or CT scans may be ordered to visualize the spine’s alignment and identify any vertebral slippage or structural abnormalities.
Spondylolisthesis is often classified based on the severity of the slippage and the direction in which the vertebra moves.
Treatment Options for Spondylolisthesis
At Nura, we understand the impact that spondylolisthesis can have on your life and are dedicated to providing you with comprehensive treatment options that effectively address your condition.
For mild cases, rest and lifestyle changes may be enough. For more severe cases, you may be looking at additional treatments like:
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Schedule an appointment with one of our pain specialists by filling out our appointment request form or giving us a call at 763-537-6000.
