Understanding Spondylolisthesis: As Seen on Scripps News

In connection with recent headlines surrounding spine health and its impact on overall well-being, Scripps News turned to Dr. Christopher Good, spine surgeon and President of the VSI, to shed light on a condition called Spondylolisthesis. This spinal condition, often linked to debilitating back pain, can significantly affect both physical and mental health when left untreated.

“In our spine, our low back, our vertebrae are stacked one on top of the other with the discs, the cushions, between. If somebody gets a stress fracture or a break, one bone can start to slide back and forth, becoming unstable. As the bones move back and forth, that can trigger back pain, or if it pinches the nerves in between the bones, that can trigger pain where the nerves come out of the spine and travel down the legs.”

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What Causes Spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis can occur for a variety of reasons, including congenital defects, spinal degeneration, or trauma. These factors may weaken the vertebrae, leading to instability and slippage. It is often seen in young athletes or older individuals experiencing age-related wear and tear on the spine.

How is Spondylolisthesis Treated?

Treatment options for spondylolisthesis vary depending on the severity of the patient’s symptoms and the degree of slippage. Often, non-operative treatments are recommended initially to manage symptoms and improve spine stability, such as:

• Spine-specialized physical therapy to strengthen the core and support the spine
• Core strengthening exercises to improve posture and spinal alignment
• Manual massage and dry needling to relieve muscle tension and pain
• Low-impact exercise to maintain mobility without placing additional stress on the spine
• Lifestyle modifications to promote overall spinal health and reduce discomfort

If non-operative treatments are unsuccessful or a patient develops worsening neurological symptoms, surgical intervention—such as spinal fusion—may be recommended.

If you or someone you know is struggling with back pain or spinal instability, seek guidance from a spine specialist. Understanding your condition is the first step toward finding relief and taking back control of your life.