What it is
In spondylolisthesis, one bone of the spine slips forward relative to the bone beneath it, most often in the lower back. In older adults it usually results from wear of the discs and joints. In younger people and athletes it can result from a small stress fracture in the back of the vertebra.
Many people have mild slips without symptoms.
Common symptoms
Patients with spondylolisthesis frequently report one or more of the following sensations:
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if you have:
- Loss of control over your bladder or bowels
- Numbness around your groin or inner thighs
- Weakness in your legs that is getting worse
- Back pain with fever, or after a serious fall or accident
Otherwise, see a spine specialist if symptoms last more than a few weeks, keep coming back, or stop you from working, sleeping or walking comfortably.
Treatment options
Without surgery
The vast majority of spine conditions begin and resolve with conservative care:
When surgery may help
Surgery is only considered when non-surgical measures do not provide relief:
Surgery is considered when symptoms continue despite treatment, when the slip is getting worse, or when there is increasing nerve pressure. It usually involves freeing the nerves and stabilising the spine (spinal fusion), which in suitable patients can be done with minimally invasive techniques.
Recovery
After stabilisation surgery, many patients walk within a day or two. The bones fuse over several months, with a gradual return to activity.
Recovery varies from person to person. Your doctor will guide you on what is right for you.
Common questions
Can a slipped vertebra go back into place?
Not on its own, but many people never need it to. Symptoms are often well controlled with physiotherapy.
Can young athletes get it?
Yes. Sports with repeated back-bending, such as cricket fast bowling, gymnastics and weightlifting, can cause a stress fracture that leads to a slip.
Consult Dr Vem Krishna Bhargava Reddy regarding your spondylolisthesis symptoms
Most spine conditions respond to structured conservative care. If your symptoms are severe, worsening, or not responding to initial remedies, an in-person clinical examination and MRI review will give you clear, reassuring answers.
Consultations are scheduled across Apollo Hospitals (Jubilee Hills) and Vem Speciality Clinics, Madhapur based on schedule and clinical availability.