Phoenix Spondylolisthesis Treatment

Nagging lower back pain or aching in the buttocks can be a sign of a very common spinal condition called spondylolisthesis. Most common in the lower back, spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebrae slips forward relative to another.

Not everyone with spondylolisthesis will have symptoms. At any of our clinics in Arizona spondylolisthesis, treatment options will depend on the severity of symptoms, and whether the condition is stable or worsening.

Who gets spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis typically occurs in adolescent athletes and adults. Gymnasts, who perform movements that can hyperextend the spine, are at greater risk of developing the condition. Football, track and field and weightlifting athletes are also at risk.

The elderly, who are experiencing age-related breakdown of the spine, are also more likely to suffer from spondylolisthesis.

Symptoms of spondylolisthesis

While some people have no symptoms at all, people often experience spondylolisthesis as a nagging mild to moderate low back pain or aching in the lower back or buttocks.

Not everyone experiences spondylolisthesis in the same way. Symptoms may include one or more of the following:

Persistent low back pain
Tenderness in the lower back
Back and leg stiffness
Tight buttock and hamstring muscles
Thigh pain

Discomfort may be worse after exercising. In severe cases, pain from nerves compressed by the slipped vertebrae can radiate down into the legs.

Spondylolisthesis Treatment Options in Arizona

Treatment will depend on the severity of symptoms. Spondylolisthesis that is detected by imaging but which doesn’t cause symptoms may not require treatment.

Treatment for spondylolisthesis might include activity modification, medication, physical therapy, injections to reduce pain and inflammation, and/or a back brace.

In only the most severe of cases, spinal fusion surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity and stabilize the spine. Dr. Baig, one of the most qualified and experienced lower back pain relief doctors in Phoenix, is skilled in performing the most advanced and least invasive spinal fusion procedures available with the goal always being to relieve pain, improve mobility and give you back your quality of life. He will only perform spondylolisthesis surgery if he is confident it will provide significant results. Patients can be cared for at any of our spine treatment centers in Phoenix.

Arizona Spondylolisthesis Surgery Options

At Desert Spine our approach to the management and treatment of the conditions of the spine is conservative. We find that most patients do not require back surgery. Non-invasive treatment options such as, physical therapy, heat treatment, medicines, injections, and others are recommended in such cases. Only if surgery is the only option and Dr. Baig is confident it will generate positive results, he will recommend it.

Above all, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We perform a complete evaluation of your situation to recommend a personalized treatment course that is tailored to your case and requirements.

With a complete dedication to patient care and honest and open communication, we understand the importance of building meaningful provider/patient relationships and educating patients with respect to their available treatment options.

We understand how back pain can negatively impact your life and are focused on healing more than anything, regardless of whether you may or may not require surgery. Whether you’re consulting a doctor for the first time or would like a second or third opinion to determine whether surgery is indeed the right option for you, you can expect to receive a thorough briefing of your case and the options available to you. It will help empower you to make the best healthcare decision for the sake of you and your family.

You don’t have to deal with chronic back pain anymore. Contact us to schedule an appointment or to request a free MRI review with Dr. Baig.