Introduction to Spondylolisthesis

One of the reasons that lower back pain is so common is that it can be caused by several conditions. Spondylolisthesis is a complicated word for describing a relatively simple concept: a vertebra that has slipped forward. At Kosak Chiropractic in Fairfield, we can diagnose spondylolisthesis and work with patients to relieve their pain in a non-addictive manner. But it’s important for patients to be aware of the possibility they have spondylolisthesis so they’ll know to take their pain and rehabilitation seriously.

Vertebrae are made up of a large flat body with an arch in back and facets for attaching to the other vertebrae above and below. Between the vertebrae bodies are spongy discs that act as shock absorbers. The facet joints contain cartilage and are lubricated by a fluid called synovium. As a person ages, their spinal discs tend to become dehydrated, and the lining of their facet joints may wear down and become inflamed. In this condition, it’s easier for a vertebra to slip out of place and compress nearby tissues, causing soreness. Although any vertebra could slip, the vertebrae of the lumbar region, or lower back, are the ones at greatest risk. When they’re out of place, they may compress the sciatic nerves, causing shooting pains or numbness down the legs.

We’ll use a combination of imaging and tactile tests to determine whether a patient is suffering from spondylolisthesis. It is common for more than one vertebrae to be displaced. Treatment options may include chiropractic adjustments to realign the joints and anti-inflammatory treatments such as electric muscle stimulation and therapeutic massages. Long-term bed rest is not usually recommended, since it would allow the back muscles to atrophy. Instead, we’ll advise the patient on therapeutic exercises that will allow the back muscles to take more pressure off the facet joints and spinal discs. The patient may also want to switch to impact-free aerobic exercise, such as swimming.

Kosak Chiropractic is located at 1252 Travis Blvd., Suite G, Fairfield, CA, 94533. To schedule an appointment, visit Kosak Chiropractic online or call 707-426-1111.