What is it?
Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it. Most cases are Grade I or II and respond well to conservative physiotherapy management. Surgery is reserved for cases with severe neurological compromise or failure of conservative treatment.
Common causes
- Stress fracture of the pars interarticularis (most common in young athletes)
- Degenerative disc and facet joint disease (most common cause in adults over 50)
- Traumatic injury to the spine
- Genetic predisposition to thin vertebral arches
Signs and symptoms
- Lower back pain, often worse with extension activities (standing, walking)
- Buttock and thigh pain
- Tight hamstrings
- Nerve symptoms (numbness, weakness) in severe cases
- Visible "step deformity" in severe cases
Physiotherapy treatment at VPARC
- Flexion-based exercises and core strengthening
- Lumbar stabilisation programme
- Manual therapy — soft tissue and gentle joint work
- Activity modification (avoiding extension-loading activities initially)
- Education on safe postures and movement strategies
What you can do at home
- Avoid activities that increase lumbar extension (gymnastics, heavy overhead lifting)
- Perform pelvic tilts and deep abdominal (transversus abdominis) activation exercises
- Walk on flat surfaces — avoid hills and stairs initially if symptomatic
- Sleep on your side in a slightly flexed position
When to visit VPARC
Visit VPARC if you have been diagnosed with spondylolisthesis or have persistent back pain related to sporting activities. Most cases are well-managed with physiotherapy — don't let a radiological finding alarm you without clinical correlation.
Call +91 98896 78838 or read more on our Back Pain Treatment in Varanasi page. This leaflet is general information and does not replace a medical assessment.