Spondylolisthesis (Listhesis) and Spinal Stenosis
- spinal conditions
Spondylolisthesis (Listhesis) & Spinal Stenosis
Back Pain That Gets Worse While Standing or Walking?
Spondylolisthesis and spinal stenosis are spine conditions that can cause lower back pain, leg pain, numbness and difficulty walking. With the right diagnosis and treatment, many patients can manage their symptoms and return to their daily activities.
Common Symptoms
Lower back pain, leg pain, numbness or weakness
Often Worse With
Standing, walking or prolonged activity
Treatment
Physiotherapy and medicines first; surgery in selected cases
- Understanding the Condition
What happens in your Lower back
Your spine is made up of small bones called vertebrae. These bones are supported by discs, joints and ligaments that help keep the spine stable.
With age, injury or changes in the spine, one vertebra can move forward over another. This is called spondylolisthesis.
Another related problem is spinal stenosis, where the space around the spinal nerves becomes narrower and may put pressure on the nerves.
- The Mechanism
What Is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis means that one vertebra has slipped forward compared with the vertebra below it.
1
Spine support becomes weak
The joints, discs or supporting structures may become weaker because of age-related changes or other causes.
2
One vertebra moves
The affected vertebra can shift from its normal position, causing instability.
3
Nerves may become compressed
The movement or narrowing around the spine may put pressure on nearby nerves, causing back or leg symptoms.
- Symptoms
Signs of Spondylolisthesis & Spinal Stenosis
You may experience:
- Lower back pain
- Pain that increases while standing or walking
- Pain that improves with rest
- Pain spreading into the buttock or leg
- Numbness or tingling
- Leg weakness
- Difficulty walking for longer distances
- A feeling of heaviness or tiredness in the legs
Symptoms can vary depending on the level and severity of the condition.
- Causes & Risk Factors
Why Does Spondylolisthesis Happen?
Most common cause
Age-Related Changes
Wear and tear of the discs, joints and supporting structures can affect spine stability.
Developmental Changes
Some people are born with changes in the spine that can increase the risk of vertebral slipping.
Injury or Stress
Repeated stress or certain injuries can affect the supporting parts of the spine.
25–40
years — most affected
Who May Be More at Risk?
The risk can be higher in people who:
Older adults
People with long-standing back problems
People with previous spine injuries
People involved in activities that repeatedly stress the lower back
People with age-related spine changes
- Tests & Diagnosis
Confirming the Problem
Your doctor will review your symptoms and examine your spine, legs and nerve function. Tests may include:
X-Ray
Shows the position and alignment of the vertebrae.
Dynamic X-Ray
Flexion and extension X-rays can help identify abnormal movement or instability.
MRI Scan
Shows the discs, nerves and spinal canal and can identify nerve compression.
CT Scan
Provides a detailed view of the bones and spine structure.
Not every patient needs every test. Investigations depend on your symptoms and examination
- Treatments
Treatment for Spondylolisthesis & Spinal Stenosis
First Step
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many patients can be managed without surgery.
Treatment may include:
- Physiotherapy
- Core and back strengthening
- Posture correction
- Medicines for pain and inflammation
- Activity modification
- Weight management
- Pain management or injections in selected cases
If needed
When Is Surgery Considered?
Surgery may be considered when:
- Pain remains severe or persistent
- Symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatment
- Numbness or weakness is progressing
- Nerves are significantly compressed
- The spine has become unstable
The decision depends on your symptoms, examination and scan findings.
- The Procedure
Decompression & Spinal Stabilization
When surgery is required, the goal is to relieve pressure on the nerves and improve spine stability.
Depending on the condition, surgery may involve:
- Decompression to free compressed nerves
- Repositioning or stabilizing the affected vertebrae
- Screws and rods to support the spine
- Fusion when required to maintain stability
Minimally invasive techniques may be suitable for selected patients.
What Can Recovery Look Like?
Early Recovery
Walking and movement are generally encouraged as advised by the doctor.
First Few Weeks
Activity is gradually increased while avoiding movements that place excessive stress on the spine.
Rehabilitation
Physiotherapy and core-strengthening exercises can help improve mobility and support the spine.
Long Term
Maintaining a healthy weight, good posture and regular exercise can support long-term spine health.
Long Term
Regular exercises that strengthen your core and back can help support your spine and reduce the risk of future problems.
- The Outlook
Spondylolisthesis Can Be Managed
Spondylolisthesis does not always mean surgery. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan:
Many patients improve with non-surgical care
Physiotherapy can improve strength and mobility
Pain management may help selected patients
Surgery can be considered when symptoms are severe or persistent
Treatment is planned according to the individual condition
- Videos & Photos
See the procedure and hear from
patients
A clearer picture of what a slip disc is, how microdiscectomy works, and what recovery actually looks like.
- Patient FAQs
Questions patients ask most
Still Experiencing Back or Leg Pain?
Persistent back pain, leg pain, numbness or weakness should be properly evaluated.
- Bring your existing MRI or X-ray reports if available
- Get your symptoms assessed by a spine specialist
- Understand your treatment options
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