How To Treat Retrolisthesis

Retrolisthesis is a spinal condition referring to the displacement of one vertebra on top of another. Typically, each vertebra sits squarely on the vertebra below it. Retrolisthesis indicates the presence of a situation where the vertebra has become positioned posterior to the adjacent vertebra. Altering the sensitive biomechanics of the spine, this is a less than optimum position and it may trigger pain and dysfunction.

The degree of impact from retrolisthesis is dependent upon the degree of displacement and the impact it has on the surrounding structures, such as spinal nerves, ligaments, and muscles. Retrolisthesis may be the result of an acute injury, a degenerative or wear and tear process, or even a congenital anomaly.

Myofascial Release

Myofascial release refers to a group of soft tissue techniques that target the musculoskeletal system. Utilized as a singular therapy or in conjunction with other treatments, myofascial therapies are typically performed by a physical therapist, chiropractor, or massage therapist, though individuals can perform some myofascial release on their own when educated on the appropriate exercises.

Myofascial release techniques target the fascial connective tissue that supports, connects, and wraps muscles providing strength and integrity. These soft tissue structures are irritated and overused in circumstances of altered biomechanics, such as retrolisthesis. Shown to reduce pain, tightness, inflammation, and dysfunction, myofascial release optimizes individual joint function and global movement patterns, improving quality of life while slowing further deterioration.

Microcurrent Therapy

Spinal retrolisthesis causes a wide variety of symptoms in impacted individuals. The symptoms generated depend upon the patient's overall health, the exact spinal structures affected by retrolisthesis, and the degree of inflammatory response. The best treatments impact a variety of structures in multiple ways. Microcurrent therapy has been shown to reduce pain generated by muscles, nerves, and tendons. Used in integrated medical centers, chiropractic offices, and physical therapy clinics, microcurrent therapy is an electrotherapy modality designed to reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms while promoting advanced healing.

Using small electrodes on the impacted area, treatment is safe and comfortable. Microcurrent therapy may be a stand-alone physiotherapeutic modality or combined with other physical medicine treatments. Easily available and cost-effective, microcurrent treatments may be utilized in a repetitive fashion to optimize outcomes in both short and long term treatment plans.

Application Of Hot Compresses

Retrolisthesis is present in all age groups, though it is most commonly problematic in older adults. In addition to youth offering an advanced level of resilience, this impact with age correlates with complications from other spinal conditions and overall musculoskeletal degeneration. Known as spinal spondylosis, osteoarthritic changes in the spine are common as we age. These changes can trigger retrolisthesis or be the primary causative factor in its development.

Numerous research studies have consistently identified the application of hot compresses as a primary treatment modality for degenerative spine conditions such as retrolisthesis. Cost-effective and easily accessible, hot compresses may be utilized to reduce pain and discomfort while maximizing painless mobility. Often used as a treatment modality to restore full movement, hot compresses will reduce spinal stiffness. Perhaps the best feature of heat therapy for retrolisthesis is its repeatability. Utilized daily or even multiple times each day, the application of hot compresses is often a primary treatment choice.

Physical Therapy For Back And Core Strength

The human spine is a dynamic structure that provides individuals with strength and mobility. Physical therapy for back and core strength is a primary component of nearly all complete care plans for spinal retrolisthesis. The greatest impacts of retrolisthesis in the spine are the alterations in biomechanics, which lead to weakness and compensation patterns that, left unchecked, will cause a further decline in overall spinal function and health.

Part of a vicious cycle of decline, altered biomechanics lead to even further alterations, advancement in degenerative changes, as well as a dramatic increase in inflammatory response. Safe and easily accessible, maximizing core strength and mobility should be a first-line plan for treating retrolisthesis.

Spinal Surgery

Despite advancing knowledge and aggressive treatments to maximize outcomes in cases of retrolisthesis, conservative treatment options may fail. The translation of one vertebra on top of the adjacent vertebra is poorly tolerated in the human spine, and with repetition, altered biomechanics may lead to overall spinal instability. Often initially demonstrated with neurological decline, such as muscle weakness or decreased sensation, spinal instability requires stabilization through surgery.

In most circumstances, the spinal surgery required is spinal fusion. During a spinal fusion procedure, hardware such as screws, plates, and cages are utilized to immobilize one or more motor units of the spine. Designed to stabilize the spinal unit, this spine surgery protects the fragile nerves and spinal cord structures that may have been at risk for severe damage and loss. While typically not an initial course of treatment in a spinal retrolisthesis, the potential need for spinal fusion surgery emphasizes the importance of having all cases of spinal retrolisthesis thoroughly examined and evaluated by a physician who specializes in spinal care.