Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is characterized as the forward or backward slippage of a vertebrae, typically on the base of the spine. Repetitively straining and hyperextending the back are good precursors for the causes of spondylolisthesis. These movements are commonly seen with football linemen, gymnasts and weight lifters.

What is the cause?

Spinal defects such as congenital issues or fractures and repetitive hyper-extension of the back are the main causes of spondylolisthesis. In spondylolysis, there is a crack or stress fracture in the vertebrae, compromising the strength of support that holds the vertebrae in place. In sports such as football, gymnastics, and weightlifting, an athlete is often repeatedly hyper-extending the back, straining the connection between vertebrae, sometimes leading to a slipped vertebra. This can lead to spondylolisthesis where a vertebra is weakened to the point where it slides out of place.

What are the symptoms?

• Back pain, typically in the lower region
• Tightness in the back
• Pain in the legs
• Tight buttocks and/or hamstrings

Dr. Petersen is well trained to correctly diagnose and treat spondylolisthesis. See the list below on the advanced and variety of treatments we use to treat the spondylolithesis symptoms.

Tests

We can order imaging tests to properly assess what is causing your symptoms.

• X-rays
  X-rays show us if there is internal damage in the back that can be treated.
• MRI
  An MRI can show how much damage and to what degree the back has been affected.

Treatments

Treatment in our office is broken down into three segments:

1. Pain reduction
   Stopping or decreasing the activity that is causing the pain is the main goal of our first treatment segment. Applying ice and heat alternatively throughout the day will help with both pain and inflammation. Our Class 4 laser treatment is very effective for this segment.
2. A range of treatments to restore oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissue
   • ART active release technique
   • Class 4 laser
   • Graston Technique Therapy
     Successful in effectively treating all soft tissue conditions, whether they are chronic, acute or post- surgical.
   • E-stim
     Electric muscle stimulation using a device that delivers electronic pulses to motor nerves through electrodes placed on the skin, causing a motor response to achieve a number of desired results.
   • Cold laser
3. Exercise
   We offer a very effective Physiotherapy regiment to both decrease pain and restore proper function.