Chiropractic Care is an exceptional choice for people who prefer a drug-free and non-invasive treatment for Spondylolisthesis.

The spine (backbone) comprises a series of individual bones called vertebrae, and they are stacked to form the spinal column. Our lower backs bear the brunt of the torso’s weight and sustain a significant amount of wear and tear, so the lumbar spine runs the highest risk of injury. However, please make no mistake; it is not uncommon for Spondylolisthesis to affect the neck in many cases.
Spondylolysis is when one vertebral body slips forward over another. The underlying cause of Spondylolisthesis has not been firmly established. We do not believe this condition stems from birth because we are yet to see a newborn born with Spondylolisthesis. Some physicians have noted that repetitive trauma (such as from certain sports) may cause or contribute to the development of spondylolysis.

 

There are five types of Spondylolisthesis:

• Dysplastic Spondylolisthesis
• Isthmic Spondylolisthesis
• Degenerative Spondylolisthesis
• Pathologic Spondylolisthesis
• Traumatic Spondylolisthesis

This condition is one of the most common causes of back pain. The typical symptom is back and/or leg pain limiting a patient’s activity level. In addition, a slipped vertebra causes the entire spine to become unstable and can be dangerous.
One of the purposes of the vertebrae they are supposed to provide some degree of flexibility. This allows you to bend backward, forward, and side to side. But, at the same time, having your vertebrae move too much can cause significant problems.
When one of your vertebrae slips out of place, it can pressure a nerve. This can lead to significant pain. In addition, if your vertebral discs are irritating the nerves in your back, you may be diagnosed with Spondylolisthesis.

 

What Are the Most Common Symptoms?

Spondylolisthesis symptoms can vary from one person to another, as with many conditions. Therefore, the symptoms range, and for some, they may never have any trouble from the diagnosis; then, for others, the pain can be so severe they can hardly walk, sit, or stand.

Common symptoms of Spondylolisthesis may include:

• muscle spasms, particularly in your buttocks or legs
• stiffness in your back due to not wanting to move your back much because of the pain
• inability to stand for long periods
• Bending can increase the pain
• numbness or tingling in your feet or ankles
• sudden, electrical shock-like sensations that go down your buttocks and legs, especially when you move

 Commonly doctors order x-rays or MRI scans to confirm a diagnosis. Many physicians treat Spondylolisthesis with prescription medication or undergo surgery. There is an alternative to these treatments with Chiropractic.

 

How Can Chiropractic Care Help With Spondylolisthesis?

Chiropractors such as Dr. Garrett Weinstein deliver a gentle, non-invasive, non-addictive therapy known as a chiropractic adjustment. Chiropractic adjustments reduce joint restrictions or misalignments in the spine and other joints in the body to reduce inflammation and improve the function of both the affected joint and nervous system. By increasing joint mobility and improving your nervous system function and spinal health, your body can better manage symptoms caused by low back pain. The adjustments usually include massage, heat or ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation.

Below are some of the health benefits chiropractic care and chiropractic adjustments can provide patients with low back pain at Chiropractic Clinics of South Florida:

• Reduced pain and discomfort
• Decreased inflammation
• Improved range of motion
• Improved flexibility
• Increased muscle tone and strength

 

More specifically, Chiropractors use a treatment called Nonsurgical spinal decompression, a type of motorized traction that may help relieve back pain due to Spondylolisthesis.
Spinal decompression works by gently stretching the spine throughout several treatments. The idea is that the spinal decompression technique changes the force and position of the spine. This change takes the pressure off the spinal disks by creating negative pressure in the disc. In turn, it helps promote the movement of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids into the disks so they can heal while reducing your overall pain. Patients are fully clothed during spinal decompression therapy. The doctor fits them with a harness around their pelvis and another around their trunk. They will then lie face down or face up on a computer-controlled table. A doctor operates the computer, customizing treatment to each specific patient’s needs. Treatment can last up to 30 to 45 minutes.

Another technique utilized is Physiotherapy which helps treat Spondylolisthesis to regain normal movement and function of the injured area as soon as possible. Physiotherapists teach patients how to heal acute injuries and manage chronic pain. By examining the patient, they assist in developing an appropriate plan of action. Physiotherapy treatment techniques enhance the ability to move while reducing pain, restoring functional movement, and preventing future injury and disability. Although this is the physical side of physiotherapy practice, the therapist also rebuilds confidence and optimism in rebuilding the body. Some might even say that they rebuild lives. We believe treatment combined with education is the best way for our patients to heal and enjoy their lives.

Dr. Garrett Weinstein, DC, is the founder of Chiropractic Clinics of South Florida and is dedicated to the health and wellness of his patients. We have several locations throughout South Florida for your convenience in Pompano Beach, North Miami, West Palm Beach, Hollywood, Miami Lakes, Miami Airport, and Kendall. Call us today and schedule a pain consultation.