Treatments - Spondylolisthesis
How Is Spondylolisthesis Treated?
The grade of slip (grades 1-5) and the symptoms will help determine the type of treatment that will be suitable. The doctor will consider the following options:
I. No treatment
Approximately 5% of the population has a spondylolisthesis, most of whom will never need any treatment as their spondylolisthesis is stable, and non-progressive. For adults, treatment is only recommended for those patients who have symptoms of pain and disability. For children, treatment is necessary if they have pain, and when the forward vertebral slip is progressing. Observation is adequate for the adult who has no symptoms or the child who has a minimal spondylolisthesis and no symptoms.
Most patients with spondylolisthesis should avoid activities that might cause more stress to the lumbar spine, such as heavy lifting and sports activities like gymnastics, football, competitive swimming, and diving. Patients, or their parents, must discuss their daily activities and hobbies with their physician to see if they are all right to continue.
