Treatment options for Spondylolisthesis

Dear Ask The Doctor: I am a 58yr old woman suffering from severe back pain that spreads to both legs.i had done my MRI scan which states that 1)grade1 degenerative spondylolisthesis of l5 over s1 vertebra 2)disc bulge at l5-s1 level causing secondary canal and bilateral neural foraminal stenosis in conjunction with facet hypertrophy 3)severe facet joint arthrosis l4-l5 level. IS SURGERY MY ONLY OPTION AHEAD.IF I DONT OPT FOR SURGERY WHAT WILL BE THE FUTURE EFFECTS

Dear Fairose: Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which vertebra in the lower part of the spine (usually L4, L5) slips out of the proper position onto the bone below it (usually L5, S1). Treatment varies with severity of the condition. Mild cases get better with anti-inflammatory medicines, stiff back brace, physical therapy combined with activity modification avoiding over extension of the back and contact sports. Surgery may be required for severe pain not controlled with above measures. If you do not opt for surgery, it may lead to too much slippage and the bones may begin to press on nerves causing severe neurological deficiencies.