Trusted Spondylolisthesis Treatment
What Is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, which can put pressure on nearby nerves or lead to instability in the spine. It's sometimes related to a stress fracture, degenerative disc disease, or a spine that was more vulnerable to slippage from birth, and severity is typically measured by how far the vertebra has shifted.
At HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, Dr. John Shiau and Dr. John Morrison determine the grade and cause of the slippage before recommending a spondylolisthesis treatment plan tailored to your specific spine.
If back pain or nerve symptoms are affecting your daily life, request a consultation with HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care today.
Understanding and Treating Spondylolisthesis
From Diagnosis to Surgical Stabilization
What Causes Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis can develop for several reasons, including:
- A stress fracture in one of the small bones that connects the vertebrae
- Degenerative changes in the disc and joints as the spine ages
- A spine structure present from birth that makes slippage more likely
- Repetitive stress from certain sports or activities
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many cases of spondylolisthesis, particularly lower grades of slippage, are managed without surgery, including:
- Physical therapy to strengthen the core and support the spine
- Activity modification to reduce stress on the affected area
- Bracing in some cases to limit movement while healing
Surgical Treatment Options
When a vertebra continues to slip or conservative care isn't providing relief, surgical stabilization may be recommended:
- Posterior spinal fusion: Stabilizes the affected vertebrae to prevent further slippage.
- Translumbar interbody fusion: Offers another fusion-based approach to restoring stability in the lower spine.
Dr. Shiau and Dr. Morrison will determine which approach fits your specific grade of slippage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of spondylolisthesis?
Symptoms of spondylolisthesis can range from none at all, in mild cases found incidentally on imaging, to persistent lower back pain, stiffness, or pain that radiates into the legs if a nerve is affected. Symptoms often worsen with activity and improve with rest.
Does spondylolisthesis always get worse over time?
Not necessarily. Many cases of spondylolisthesis remain stable for years without progressing, especially in adults whose spines have stopped growing. An orthopedic spine surgeon will typically monitor the degree of slippage over time with periodic imaging to catch any progression early, rather than assuming surgery is inevitable.
Why should I choose HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care for spondylolisthesis treatment near me?
Finding the right spine specialist near you means finding a team that treats the specific grade and cause of your slippage rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr. Shiau and Dr. Morrison bring extensive spine experience to every case, from conservative monitoring to surgical stabilization when it's truly needed.
Serving patients across New York and New Jersey, our team is ready to help you find the right path forward for your spondylolisthesis.