Degenerative Spondylolisthesis is diagnosed when one vertebra in the back slips forward over the one directly below it. It occurs most commonly in those over the age of 50, and much more common in individuals over the age of 65.
Causes of Degenerative Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis can be caused by a birth defect, aging, sustaining a trauma or from bone diseases. For the purpose of this article we will focus on Degenerative Spondylolisthesis, which is caused by aging. When we age, the spine can become weak, therefore the spinal column is not held in proper alignment.
Degenerative Spondylolisthesis Symptoms
The most common symptoms of Degenerative Spondylolisthesis is lower back pain and/or leg pain. Some people also say they experience Sciatic pain, or having really tired legs after standing for an extended period of time. People with Degenerative Spondylolisthesis often have tight hamstrings, difficulty with stretching the back out and a decrease in flexibility in the lower back.
Lastly, if the person is unable to control urine or stool this would be considered a medical emergency. The slippage of the vertebra may be pushing on the spinal cord. Anyone that has these symptoms should get medical attention immediately.
Treatments for Degenerative Spondylolisthesis
Traditional treatments for degenerative Spondylolisthesis are temporary bed rest, pain and anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, physical therapy and reduction in specific activities which may aggravate the condition. If the condition is severe enough, surgery may be needed as a last resort. It is important to work with a experienced Degenerative Spondylolisthesis professional as this condition can get progressively worse over time.
In addition to working with a professional, there are some safe, natural treatments that one can incorporate into their treatment program. Since Degenerative Spondylolisthesis can be quite painful, we recommend taking supplements for pain. More often than not, back pain sufferers are prescribed dangerous pain medications and NSAIDS to combat pain. These do offer relief, but with a price. These medications come with a plethora of negative side effects.
Take heart, there are all natural, anti-inflammatory supplements on the market that can be just as effective as the traditional pain medicines. Heal-n-Soothe, a natural anti-inflammatory supplement with 12 all natural ingredients, has been proven to reduce inflammation in the body and reduce pain with a potent Proteolytic Enzyme complex.
Muscle Balance Therapy can teach you how to restore balance in the body. The program can help you develop a targeted and corrective program with your specific needs in mind.
Jesse is the co-founder and visionary CEO of The Healthy Back Institute®, the world-leading source of natural back pain solutions. His mission as a former back pain sufferer is to help others live pain free without surgery and pharmaceuticals.
