Spondylolisthesis
Understanding the Condition & Finding Lasting Relief
What Is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips out of place over the one below it, leading to spinal instability, nerve compression, and back pain.
This condition most commonly affects the lower back (lumbar spine) and can cause discomfort, mobility issues, and nerve-related symptoms such as tingling or weakness in the legs.
While some cases of spondylolisthesis are mild and cause minimal discomfort, others can progress and require medical intervention to restore spinal stability and relieve nerve compression. Fortunately, expert treatment can help you regain mobility and reduce pain.
How Spondylolisthesis Impacts Your Life
Without proper treatment, spondylolisthesis can lead to:
Chronic lower back pain that interferes with work, exercise, and daily tasks.
Progressive nerve compression, increasing pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs.
Spinal instability, which may result in spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease.
Reduced mobility and flexibility, making it difficult to maintain an active lifestyle.
Common Causes of Spondylolisthesis
How Mr Gordan Grahovac Can Help
As a Consultant Neurosurgeon & Complex Spinal Surgeon in London, Mr Grahovac specialises in diagnosing and treating spondylolisthesis. His patient-first approach ensures that each treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, whether through conservative management, minimally invasive procedures, or advanced spinal surgery.
To accurately diagnose spondylolisthesis, Mr Grahovac conducts:
Medical History & Physical Examination – Assessing pain levels, mobility, and nerve function.
Advanced Imaging (MRI/CT/EOS, X-ray) – Determining the degree of vertebral slippage and nerve compression.
Nerve Function Tests – Evaluating reflexes, muscle weakness, and sensation loss.
His Diagnostic Process:
Treatment Options for Spondylolisthesis
Mr Grahovac and the teams he works with take a holistic approach to your treatment, considering the severity of your symptoms, underlying condition, and overall well-being to create a personalised plan that promotes long-term relief and spinal health.
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Postural & Ergonomic Advice – Adjusting sitting, standing, and movement habits to reduce spinal strain and improve alignment.
Physiotherapy & Core Strengthening – Strengthening the core, back, and spinal stabilising muscles to support the spine and reduce instability.
Pain Management Strategies – Using anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, and heat/cold therapy to ease discomfort and inflammation.
Bracing (For Select Cases) – Short-term use of a lumbar brace to support the lower back and limit excessive movement during recovery.
Weight Management & Low-Impact Exercise – Reducing excess strain on the spine through activities like swimming, walking, yoga, and Pilates to maintain mobility without stressing the vertebrae.
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Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI) – Reducing inflammation and swelling around compressed nerves.
Nerve Root Blocks – Providing targeted pain relief by blocking pain signals from irritated nerve roots.
Facet Joint Injections – Treating inflammation and stiffness in the small spinal joints, which may contribute to instability.
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Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery (MISS) – Small incisions with reduced recovery time for spinal stabilisation and nerve decompression.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery – High-precision, advanced techniques for spinal realignment, stabilisation, and decompression.
Decompression Surgery (Laminectomy or Foraminotomy) – Removing bone spurs or tissue to relieve nerve compression and create space for spinal nerves.
Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation – A minimally invasive spinal stabilisation procedure using small incisions and screws to reinforce weakened vertebrae without open surgery.
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Spinal Fusion Surgery – Permanently joining vertebrae to stabilise the spine and prevent further slippage.
Lumbar Decompression & Fusion (PLIF/TLIF/XLIF/OLIF/ALIF) – A combined approach involving spinal decompression (removing pressure on nerves) along with fusion techniques to restore proper alignment.
Spinal Decompression Surgery– Used in severe or progressive spondylolisthesis cases to relieve direct pressure on the spinal cord.
What Patients Are Saying
Frequently Asked Questions: Spondylolisthesis
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It often feels like persistent lower back pain, stiffness, and in some cases, sciatica-like symptoms such as radiating leg pain, numbness, or tingling.
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Mild cases can often be managed with physiotherapy and posture correction. However, moderate to severe cases may require medical intervention to prevent worsening symptoms.
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Recovery depends on the treatment method. Non-surgical approaches may take weeks to months, while surgical recovery typically ranges from 6 weeks to 3 months, depending on the procedure.
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Yes. Strengthening the core, maintaining good posture, weight management, and ergonomic adjustments can reduce symptoms and slow progression.
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Surgery may be necessary if:
Pain persists despite conservative treatments.
Weakness, numbness, or leg instability worsens.
Symptoms significantly impact daily activities or mobility.
Severe nerve compression leads to red flag symptoms (e.g., bowel/bladder dysfunction).
If you're unsure, book a consultation with Mr. Gordan Grahovac for expert evaluation.
Take the First Step Towards Relief
Spondylolisthesis doesn’t have to limit your life. Whether you need conservative treatment or advanced spinal care, Mr Gordan Grahovac is here to help.
Book a consultation today and start your journey towards lasting relief.