Retrolisthesis

Retrolisthesis occurs when a single vertebra slips and moves back along the intervertebral disc underneath or above it. It’s not the same as a dislocation. If the vertebra slips forward, it’s called spondylolisthesis. Each vertebra is separated by a cushion of intervertebral discs. These discs consist of an inner core called the nucleus pulposus. They’re held intact by a strong outer ring of ligament fibers called the annulus fibrosus.

There are three types of retrolistheses. They’re based on the displacement of the vertebra in relation to adjacent vertebra.

• Complete retrolisthesis. One vertebra moves backward to both the spinal segments above and below.

• Partial retrolisthesis. One vertebra moves backward to a spinal segment either below or above.

• Stairstepped retrolisthesis. One vertebra moves backward to the body of a spinal segment located above, but ahead of the one below.

Signs and symptoms may include:

• uneasiness in one area of your back

• spine distortion or a bulge in your back

• limited range of motion

• back pain

• other forms of pain in the region of displacement

Dr. Tenckhoff uses Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression to widen the canal space, drop the intradiscal pressure and increase the disc height to relieve pain. Like spondylolisthesis, the gentler the flexion-distraction treatment, the better the response. At home you may want to avoid sitting for long periods of time, wear a support brace if recommended, take nutritional supplements that help rebuild disc cartilage, do exercises that strengthen your spine, sleep on a supportive mattress, sit in an ergonomically designed chair, and modify your daily activities as needed.