Spondylolisthesis Treatment with Physical Therapy

Spondylolisthesis treatment typically begins conservatively (non-surgically), with a doctor-recommended regimen of anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, muscle relaxants, bracing, and more. Two or three days of bed rest may be helpful, but starting a physical therapy program shortly after a period of rest can help a patient avoid further spinal damage and muscle atrophy.

What Happens During Physical Therapy?

The degree of vertebral slippage and the severity of a patient's symptoms will be considered when the patient's medical team determines which physical therapy methods should be used to help him or her find relief. In general, a physical therapist's goal for spondylolisthesis treatment is to improve the patient's core muscle strength, which is essential for a properly supported spinal column. Stabilization exercises help build an important foundation for core muscle strength and may focus on the abdominal and lumbar (lower back) muscles, as well as the supportive pelvic muscles and ligaments.

More physically demanding, aerobic exercises, such as swimming and running, might become part of a physical therapy plan once acute pain lessens. Being overweight is often a contributing factor to the development of spondylolisthesis, and aerobic activity can help burn excess fat as well as help increase blood flow to muscles and other tissues. Physical therapy treatment might also include:

Depending on each patient's needs and unique situation, a doctor may recommend several weeks or months of physical therapy sessions.

If Conservative Options Fail

In general, physical therapy and other nonsurgical spondylolisthesis treatment methods can help a patient find relief from back pain. If these treatments fail to alleviate symptoms and a displaced vertebra continues to shift out of alignment, a doctor may suggest surgery as a final treatment option. Spondylolisthesis surgery typically involves the fusion of a misaligned vertebra to another vertebra using bone grafts, screws, and rods. While fusion can help to halt vertebral shifting, it also permanently affects movement in that segment of the spine, so patients should always obtain additional medical opinions and thoroughly understand all of the risks and benefits associated with any spinal surgery.