Spondylolisthesis is a condition that results in one of the most common health problems – chronic lower back pain. This ailment is diagnosed by the slip of a vertebral disc in the lumbar spine (lower back). It’s particularly troublesome because it can occur at any age, for a wide variety of reasons. Athletes, those with a sedentary lifestyle, and those suffering from trauma are all likely to develop the condition. It’s a truly nondiscriminatory problem.
Thankfully, spondylolisthesis doesn’t have to be a lifelong condition. It can be realized and addressed by a qualified chiropractor.
BREAKING DOWN SPONDYLOLISTHESIS
Spondylolisthesis can be caused by a wide range of catalysts. These often include trauma, such as a fracture, or a degenerative condition affecting the bones, such as arthritis. However, spondylolisthesis can also take shape over time, through things like chronic poor posture or overexertion of the spine. No matter the reason, the end result is slipping of the disc.
When a spinal disc slips, it can wreak all kinds of havoc. This is because of the crucial role the spine plays in regulating the nervous system. Most people rightly associate disc slippage with lower back pain, but it may also result in:
- Chronic fatigue;
- Lack of mobility;
- Pain radiating down the legs;
- Gastrointestinal distress;
- Localized numbness and tingling;
- Sciatic pain.
CORRECTING SLIPPING DISCS
An unstable vertebral disc is a very serious medical condition. It needs to be assessed in a qualified professional before it becomes a permanent fixture in your life. For this, a chiropractor is the best option. They’ll be able to take X-rays or MRIs, while also physically assessing how far forward and backward you can bend your back. This can lead to a swift diagnosis and the potential for a more effective resolution.
Treatments for spondylolisthesis vary depending on the patient. Thankfully, chiropractic is a highly-individualized system. In fact, at ChiroPath Spine & Posture Centre we actually use Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) to employ a wellness plan that specifically addressed each patient’s unique condition.
Most often for spondylolisthesis, spinal correction through adjustment is recommended. This allows your chiropractor to reset the vertebral discs back to the original formation. This effective treatment often has patients seeing results within a few visits. For more severe cases, back bracing is another option.
Your chiropractor may also prescribe a physical therapy program to support the ligaments, muscles, and tissue surrounding the lumbar spine. This is important to prevent problems from flaring up again in the future. Unlike lumbar fusion surgery – which is another way to see long-term results – chiropractic is natural, less expensive, and doesn’t require extensive recovery times.
CATCHING PROBLEMS EARLY
If you’re living with low back pain, it’s time to put an end to it. Ignoring chronic warning signs could mean developing a condition like spondylolisthesis or any number of other ailments. The doctors at ChiroPath Spine & Posture Centre has extensive knowledge about how to restore and maintain your spine. Contact us today to setup a consultation or learn more about how we can help you.
