Suggest Treatment For Lower Back Pain

Posted on Sat, 10 Sep 2016

Question: Hello. Last month I went to my primary care for lower back pain. I have been seeking chiro and pt. The pain is resolving slowly but improving. I had an x-ray done and the findings read: Lumbar vertebral bodies are normal in height. There is grade 2 anterolisthesis of L5 on S1. Mild narrowing of the L4/L5 dis space height identified. Parasinal soft issues appear unremarkable. Probable bilateral L5 spondylolysis.

I am being referred to an orthopedic specialist on the matter. My question is: generally speaking with the findings above what is a typical course of action? surgery? Also, generally speaking, with chiropractic care and physical therapy could the grade 2 decrease to a grade 1? Could a grade 2 become a grade 3 over time?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Surgery is strongly recommend.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

Grade 2 spondylolysthesis at L5-S1 is very unlikely to revert to grade 1 with physical therapy or chiropractic manipulation.

It is very possible ( your age contributes to this ) for the spondylolysthesis to progress.

Best treatment, in my opinion, is decompression and fusion surgery, however, additional imaging studies such dynamic x-rays ( flexion and extension of lumbosacral column ) and MRI are necessary to complete the assessment.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad