Spondylolisthesis Relief in Carrollwood and Greater Tampa
If you’ve been told you have spondylolisthesis, or you’re dealing with persistent low back pain that radiates into your hips or legs, you may be wondering what it means and whether it can be treated without surgery. At HealthSpine Chiropractic in Carrollwood, we help patients throughout Tampa Bay understand this condition and find relief through personalized, conservative care. Our goal is to improve spinal stability, reduce nerve irritation, and help you move more comfortably again.
What Is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis (pronounced spon-duh-loh-lis-THEE-sis) occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it. This slippage can irritate nearby nerves, cause lower back pain, and lead to issues like muscle tightness, leg pain, or difficulty standing for long periods.
There are several types:
- Isthmic spondylolisthesis – due to a stress fracture or defect in the pars interarticularis (often in athletes or active individuals)
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis – related to aging and joint wear-and-tear
- Congenital – present from birth
- Traumatic or pathological – from injury or disease (rare)
The most common levels are L4–L5 and L5–S1 in the lower back.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spondylolisthesis
What does spondylolisthesis feel like?
- Lower back pain, especially with arching backward
- Tight or stiff hamstrings
- Pain that radiates into the buttocks, thighs, or calves
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
- Weakness or fatigue while standing or walking
- A sense of instability or the back “giving out”
Is spondylolisthesis serious?
It depends. Some people have mild vertebral slippage and no symptoms at all. Others experience more intense pain or nerve involvement. Severity often relates to the amount of slippage, whether nerves are being compressed, and how much it impacts daily function.
What are the grades of spondylolisthesis?
Slippage is classified by percentage of forward movement:
- Grade I: 1–25%
- Grade II: 26–50%
- Grade III–V: 51% or more
Grades I and II are most common in chiropractic settings and usually respond well to conservative treatment.
Can chiropractic care help with spondylolisthesis?
Yes, especially for lower-grade cases. Chiropractic care can:
- Decrease pain through gentle adjustments
- Improve mobility and joint function
- Support healing of surrounding tissues
- Reduce nerve irritation
- Help stabilize posture and reduce future strain
At HealthSpine Chiropractic, all treatment plans are customized based on your history, imaging, and specific needs. We avoid high-force techniques on unstable segments.
Can you fix spondylolisthesis without surgery?
In many cases, yes. Surgery is typically only considered if:
- GNon-surgical care has not improved symptoms
- Slippage is severe (Grade III or higher)
- You have progressive nerve damage or bladder or bowel issues
Many patients live active lives without surgery by improving strength, alignment, and nerve health through guided care.
How Is Spondylolisthesis Diagnosed?
We use a combination of:
- X-rays to detect vertebral slippage
- MRI scans to check for nerve compression and disc health
- Physical exams to assess posture, strength, and neurological signs
If you already have imaging, Dr. Bobby Koser can review it with you and explain your options.
What to Avoid if You Have Spondylolisthesis
- Activities that involve deep back bendingHigh-impact sports or running on hard surfaces
- Heavy lifting without core engagement
- Sitting for long periods without moving
- Ignoring signs like numbness or loss of coordination
Our Approach to Spondylolisthesis Care
We believe in stabilizing the spine, not just masking symptoms. Your care plan may include:
- Gentle chiropractic adjustments that avoid stressing the slipped vertebra
- Rehabilitation exercises to support spinal alignment and improve muscle control
- RedLaser Therapy to reduce inflammation and enhance tissue repair
- StrengthFusion Training to safely build strength using AI-guided resistance
- PulseRelease Therapy to ease soft tissue tension and improve mobility
- Postural coaching to improve standing, sitting, and lifting habits
All techniques are selected for safety, precision, and long-term success.
Take Control of Your Back Health
You don’t have to live with daily pain or jump straight to surgery. With the right care plan, most people with spondylolisthesis find relief, restore function, and get back to doing what they love.
📍 Located in Carrollwood and proudly serving Westchase, Northdale, Citrus Park, Seminole Heights and all of Tampa Bay
📅 Click Here to Schedule Now or call us at 1-844-51-SPINE (1-844-517-7463)
