spondylolisthesis

What is spondylolisthesis?

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Lower back pain may be caused byspondylolisthesis, a spinal disorder. It happens when one of your vertebrae or spine bones slips out of place and lands on the vertebra below it. Nonsurgical treatment can usually alleviate your problems. In most cases, surgery for severe grade spondylolisthesis is effective.

What is spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolsthesis is a condition in which the vertebrae move more than they should, resulting in spine instability. A vertebra slips out of place and lands on the one below it. There will be pars interarticularis defect a bone connecting upper and lower facet. It could exert pressure on a nerve, resulting in lower back or leg pain.

The Greek words spondylos, which means “spine” or “vertebra” and listhesis, which means “slipping, sliding or moving” are combined to form spondylolisthesis (pronounced sphon-di-low-less-THEE-sis).

Types of spondylolisthesis:

  •  Degenerative spondylolisthesis: the most prevalent kind is degenerative spondylolisthesis, which occurs as a result of ageing.
  • Isthmic spondylolisthesis: as a result of spondylolisthesis, isthmic spondylolistheis develops. The bone is weakened by the crack or fracture.
  • Congenital spondylolisthesis: when a baby’s spine does not form properly before birth, this is known as congenital spondylolisthesis. The person’s vertebrae are misaligned, putting them at risk for slippage later in life.
  • Less common types of spondylolisthesis are:
  1. Traumatic spondylolisthesis: it occurs when the vertebrae slip as a result of an injury.
  2. Pathological spondylolisthesis: when a disease, such as osteoporosis, or a tumour, develops pathological spondylolisthesis.
  3. Post surgical spondylolisthesis: slippage as a result ofspinal surgery is known as post-surgical spondylolisthesis.

How common is spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis and spondylolysis affect approximately 4% to 6% of the adult population. It is easy to go years without realising you have spondylolisthesis because you do not have any symptoms.

Degenerative spondylolisthesis (which happens as a result of ageing and wear and tear of the spine) is more common in women than in men after the age of 50.

Isthmic spondylolisthesis (typically induced by spondylolysis) is one of the most common reasons for back pain in teenagers.

Causes of spondylolisthesis:

One of the most common causes of spondylolisthesis in young athletes is overextending the spine. Genetics could also have a role. Some people are born with spinal bones that are thinner than others. Wear and tear on the spine and discs (the cushions between the vertebrae) can develop this problem in older persons.

What are the symptoms of spondylolisthesis?

You might not notice any signs or symptoms of spondylolisthesis. Some people are unaware that they have the disease. If you do experience symptoms, the most common one is lower back ache. The discomfort may spread to the buttocks and thighs. You may also experience:

  • Back pain/leg pain aggravated by activity- working at home or bending and picking up object.
  • Stiffness in the back
  • Spasms in thehamstring muscle (muscles in the back of the thighs)
  • Walking or standing for long periods of time is difficult
  • When leaning over, there is pain
  • Numbness, tingling or weakness in the foot.

How is spondylolisthesis diagnosed?

Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and inquire about your symptoms. An imaging/scan will very certainly be required to confirm the diagnosis.

What imaging tests will be needed?

  • A spinal X ray allows doctors to see if a vertebrae is misaligned.
  • To see the spine in greater detail or to see soft tissue like discs and nerves, a CT scan or an MRI scan may be required.

How to reduce the risk of spondylolisthesis?

You can lower your chance of spondylolisthesis by doing the following:

  • Regularly exercise your back and abdominal muscles to keep them strong
  • Maintain a healthybody mass index (BMI). Weight gain puts additional strain on your lower back
  • To keep your bones well nourished and robust, eat a well balanced diet.

What is the outlook for people with spondylolisthesis?

 The success rate of surgery is very high. Spondylolisthesis surgery patients typically return to an active lifestyle after a few months following surgery. Following surgery, you will almost certainly require therapy to help you regain full function.

Summary:

Spondylolisthesis is one of the  common cause of back pain /discomfort, however it is not life threatening. There are a variety of therapists available, ranging from medicine to physical therapy to spinal surgery. If you are experiencing low back discomfort or finding it difficult to walk, stand, or bend over, consult theNeuro Wellness Care Center, they will provide the best and cost friendly Back Pain Treatment in Bangalore.

What you should know about disc prolapse at neck cervical PIVD

Neck Cervical PIVD: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

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Cervical PIVD is a condition where a disc in your neck slips out and presses on nearby nerves. It can cause pain, stiffness, or arm numbness. Early treatment helps avoid surgery. This guide explains symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

📍 Consult Dr. Ganesh, Neurosurgeon in Bangalore, for spine-related issues.

What Is Cervical Disc Prolapse (PIVD)?

Cervical disc prolapse, also called Neck Cervical PIVD, occurs when one of the discs between the vertebrae in your neck shifts out of its normal position and presses on nearby nerves. This can lead to pain, stiffness, or numbness in the neck, shoulders, or arms.

PIVD stands for Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc — commonly referred to as a “slipped disc” in the neck.

These discs act as cushions between the bones in your spine. When a disc bulges or ruptures, it can compress nerves or the spinal cord, triggering symptoms that range from mild discomfort to severe neurological problems.

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Symptoms of Cervical PIVD

Neck Cervical PIVD can cause a range of symptoms depending on how much the disc is pressing on the nerves or spinal cord. These symptoms can appear suddenly or build up over time — and are often mistaken for a pinched nerve or cervical spondylitis.

Look out for the following signs:

Common Symptoms:

ㆍPersistent neck pain, especially on one side
ㆍPain radiating from neck to shoulder, arm, or hand
ㆍNumbness or tingling in the fingers or arms
ㆍWeakness in the arms or hand grip
ㆍDifficulty turning the head or tilting the neck
ㆍHeadaches starting from the back of the neck
ㆍMuscle spasms or stiffness
ㆍIncreased pain after sitting, driving, or looking down

Causes & Risk Factors of Neck Cervical PIVD

Cervical PIVD (Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc in the neck) is commonly caused by disc wear and tear, sudden neck movements, or long-term poor posture. The risk increases with age and lifestyle habits that weaken spinal structures.

Common Causes:

ㆍ Age-related disc degeneration
ㆍ Lifting heavy weights improperly
ㆍSudden neck movement (e.g., whiplash from accidents)
ㆍProlonged sitting with poor posture (IT professionals, drivers)
ㆍWeak neck muscles due to inactivity
ㆍSleeping without neck support

Risk Factors:

ㆍRepetitive neck strain (tech jobs, phone use)
ㆍFamily history of spine issues
ㆍObesity (adds strain to cervical spine)
ㆍSmoking (reduces disc nutrition)
ㆍDiabetes (affects nerve health)

How Is Cervical PIVD Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Neck Cervical PIVD involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging tests to accurately identify the location and severity of the disc problem.

1. Clinical Examination

Your doctor will assess:

ㆍNeck movement and range of motion
ㆍMuscle strength and reflexes
ㆍSensory loss or numbness in the arms/hands
ㆍSigns of nerve compression

2. MRI Scan

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is the most accurate test to visualize:

ㆍBulging or herniated discs
ㆍNerve root compression
ㆍSpinal cord involvement

3. Nerve Conduction Studies / EMG(If needed)

These tests check how well electrical signals travel through your nerves and muscles—useful in cases where symptoms are unclear or widespread.

Want to know what happens during your first neurosurgeon visit?
Click here → First Visit to Neurosurgeon – What to Expect

Treatment Options for Cervical Disc Prolapse (Neck Cervical PIVD)

The treatment for Neck Cervical PIVD depends on the severity of your symptoms and how much the disc is pressing on surrounding nerves. Most cases do not require surgery and respond well to a combination of rest, therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

TreatmentDescription
Rest & MedicationShort-term rest with anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling
PhysiotherapyPosture correction, neck muscle strengthening, cervical traction if needed
Collar SupportTemporary use of a cervical collar to limit motion and support healing
Injections (if severe)Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks to relieve severe nerve pain

Avoid prolonged cervical collar use without prescription.
Learn more :  Cervical Collar Use Guide

Surgical Treatment (Only if Necessary)

In rare cases where non-surgical treatments fail or if symptoms worsen (e.g., muscle weakness, nerve damage), your neurosurgeon may recommend:

ㆍMicrodiscectomy – Removing the herniated part of the disc
ㆍCervical decompression or fusion surgery – To relieve spinal cord or nerve root pressure

✅ Surgery is considered only when pain is disabling or neurological deficits progress.

Ganesh

Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah

Consultant – Neurosurgeon, Neurointerventional Surgery, Spine Surgeon (Neuro)
23+ Years Experience Overall (17+ years as Neuro Specialist)

Available for Consultation: Jayanagar 9th Block & Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City 

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When Should You See a Doctor for Neck Cervical PIVD?

While mild neck pain may go away with rest, symptoms related to Cervical PIVD should never be ignored—especially if they involve the nerves. Early consultation can prevent permanent nerve damage and reduce the chances of needing surgery.

Consult a Neurosurgeon Immediately If You Have:

ㆍPain radiating from neck to shoulder, arm, or fingers
ㆍNumbness, tingling, or burning sensation in your hands
ㆍWeakness in grip strength or arm movement
ㆍDifficulty holding objects or fine motor tasks
ㆍSymptoms lasting more than 7 days despite rest
ㆍBalance issues or spinal cord compression symptoms

Don’t wait until it worsens. Early diagnosis = Faster recovery.

Book a consultationwith Dr. Ganesh, Senior Neurosurgeon at Neurowellness, Bangalore.

FAQs

1. What is cervical PIVD?

Cervical PIVD (Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc) is a condition where a disc in the neck region bulges or herniates, pressing on spinal nerves.

2. How long does cervical disc prolapse take to heal?

With proper treatment, mild to moderate cases heal within 4–6 weeks. Severe or chronic cases may require long-term care.

3. Can cervical PIVD cause arm pain or numbness?

Yes. A prolapsed disc in the neck often presses on nerves that travel down the arm, leading to tingling, pain, or weakness.

Top 10 essential tips for a healthy spine

Top 10 essential tips for a healthy spine

adminBest spine surgeon in Bangalore, back pain treatment, Bangalore Spine Specialist Clinic, Best Neurosurgeon in Bangalore 2 Comments

Back discomfort affects millions of people every day. Beyond the pain, this type of disease can reduce your quality of life by forcing you to miss work and social events you enjoy, as well as preventing you from performing even ordinary, everyday duties.

According to National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, low back pain is the largest cause of work-related disability (NINDS)

Taking care of your spine- your back and neck- now will reduce your chances of suffering from back discomfort later.

Many of the efforts you can take to improve your spine’s overall health are as simple as improving your body mechanics or how you move and hold yourself while performing regular jobs and activities.

Back pain

Back pain is a prominent cause of disability worldwide, and it is one of the most common reasons people visit the doctor or miss work.

Fortunately, you may take steps to prevent or alleviate most instances of back discomfort. If prevention fails, basic home treatment and appropriate body mechanics can frequently cure your back and keep it functional within a few weeks. Back pain is rarely treated with surgery.

Symptoms of back pain:

Back pain can be anything from a dull ache in the muscles to a shooting, pulling or stabbing pain.

Furthermore, pain may travel down your leg or worsen when you bend, twist, lift, stand or walk.

When do you see a doctor?

 Most back pain improves over time with self care and home treatment, usually within a few weeks. You see a doctor when:

  • Your back pain has been going on for a few weeks
  • Back pain is intense and does not get any better with rest
  • It spreads down one or both legs, particularly if discomfort is felt below the knee
  • One or both legs experience weakness, numbness or tingling
  • It is followed with an inexplicable decrease of weight

Back discomfort might occasionally indicate a significant medical concern. If you have back discomfort, seek medical attention right away or if you are from Bangalore then visit a Bangalore Spine Specialist Clinic for the best Back Pain Treatment in Bangalore:

  • New bowel or bladder problems occur as a result of this medication
  • Is accompanied by a high temperature
  • After a fall, hit to the back or another injury

Causes of back pain:

 Back pain frequently occurs without a known reason that your doctor can determine through a test or imaging study. Back discomfort is usually associated with the following conditions:

  • Strain of a muscle or ligament

 Back muscles and ligaments can be strained by repeated heavy lifting or a sudden uncomfortable movement. Constant tension on your back might produce severe muscle spasms if you are in poor physical shape.

  • Discs that have bulged or ruptured

 Discs act as cushions between your spine’s bones (vertebrae). A disc’s soft substance can expand or rupture, putting pressure on a nerve. A bulging or ruptured disc, on the other hand, can cause no back pain. Disc disease is frequently discovered by chance when you receive spine X-rays for another cause.

 The lower back can be affected by osteoarthritis. In some circumstances, arthritis in the spine can cause spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the area around the spinal cord.

  • Osteoporosis

Your spine’s vertebrae can develop painful fractures if your bones become porous and brittle.

  •  Risk factors

 Back discomfort can affect anyone, including toddlers and teenagers. These  variable may increase your chances of having back pain:

  • Age : Back discomfort becomes increasingly common as you age, beginning around the age of 30 or 40.
  • Lack of physical activity: Back discomfort can be caused by weak, underused muscles in the back and abdomen.
  • A lot of weight: Your back is put under additional strain if you are overweight.
  • Diseases: Arthritis is a disease that affects people of all ages.
  • Lifting done incorrectly: Back pain can result from using your back instead of your legs.
  • Psychological problems: Back pain appears to be more common in people who suffer from depression and anxiety.
  • Smoking: Back pain is more common in smokers. This could be due to the fact that smoking causes increased coughing, which can lead to herniated discs. Smoking can also reduce blood flow to the spine, increasing the risk of a stroke.

Top 10 essential tips for a healthy spine:

 1. Examine your exercise regimen

 A good workout routine aids in the maintenance of a healthy spine. Exercise can also aid in the rehabilitation of injuries to the spine.

You no longer need to be a professional athlete with a  complicated exercise regimen to maintain a healthy spine. It is enough to undertake a simple exercise regimen that strengthens and stretches your back, abdominal muscles and hamstrings.

These basic workouts will help in the delivery of nutrients to your soft tissues and spinal discs as well as maintaining the health of your spinal discs, muscles, joints and ligaments. Stretching and strengthening aid in the degeneration of spine.

2. Appropriate lifting

Lifting heavy objects incorrectly can weaken your lower back muscles, resulting in a back injuryand unpleasant muscular strains.

When lifting something heavy if your body is not properly positioned, you risk locking your spinal joint or rupturing your spinal discs.

Lifting correctly entails more than just bending your knees. When lifting a big object, make sure you lead with your hips rather than your back.

Put your chest forward and rely on your abdominal muscles. These simple tips will help you avoid pulling a muscle in your spine, which may be very painful.

3. Verify your posture

 Do you find yourself slouching at work or while sitting on the couch at home? Many people do not even realise they have bad posture.

If you look at a photo of a spine, you will notice that it curves naturally. It is also critical that your sitting posture helps to sustain these curves.

spine

When your posture goes against the normal curve of your spine, you risk damaging the sensitive nerves in your spine.

First, stretch and walk whenever you can, even if it is only for a few minutes. Make sure your desk and office chair are in good shape.

Get a stand up desk to work for a few hours or spend some time sitting on an exercise ball. These solutions are suitable for those who have the ability to choose.

4. Get massage therapy for your body

Massage treatment has a number of advantages. It’s a good way to efficiently treat back problems and pain in specific situations.

Massage treatment promotes blood circulation, relieves sore muscles in the spine and enhances endorphin levels in the spine, to name a few benefits. Massage therapy can even assist you in sleeping better.

5. Walking on a regular basis result in a healthy spine

Walking on a regular basis has a number of advantages. Walking helps to strengthen your core, nourish your spine and keep your body upright. It also strengthens bone structure and enhances flexibility.

Before starting a walking routine, see your doctor.

A Neurosurgeon will advise you on how long you should walk.

6. Heat therapy can relieve pain

 It is no secret thatheat relaxes muscles. When heat is  applied it encourages blood flow. This gives your muscles the nourishment that your spine requires.

Heat therapy relieves discomfort in your spine’s joints and muscles. It has also been reported to help with muscle spasms.

There are a variety of heat therapy items available. Consider using a heating pad or a heat wrap that emits low, continuous heat over a period of many hours.

7. The right way to sleep

Creating a sleep plan that is suited for your body to get the best benefits for a healthy spine.

Get a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck. Everyone is unique. As a result, a cushion that suits one individual may not suit another. The type of sleeping pillow you require is also determined by your sleeping posture.

8. Join a yoga meditation course

Meditation has been found in studies to be an effective treatment for persistent back pain. Many patients with persistent back pain have found relief through yoga, Tai Chi and mindful meditation.

Breathing and stretching exercises appear to improve the health of the spine. What matters most is that you practice on a regular basis.

9. Eat well and keep a healthy weight

The importance of a good diet in maintaining a healthy spine cannot be overstated. Preventing spinal problems like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis can be as simple as eating meals high in calcium and containing critical nutrients and vitamins

10. Quit smoking

It reduces the toxic and harmful substances load in the body, reduces the  vessel narrowing and blood supply to spine.  Quiting smoke also reduces cough and reduces intra spinal pressure.

Disclaimer:

This article /content is for general information and educational purposes only and is not complete or exhaustive. The presentation / article / content is not intended or implied to provide or substitute for medical or other professional health care advice, be used to assess health conditions, or used or relied upon for diagnosis or treatment. This presentation / article /content do not constitute an endorsement or an approval of any of the products, services, contents or opinions. NeuroWellness makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information contained in this presentation / article / content and will not be liable for any losses, injuries or damages arising from its use.

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