Slipped Disc
Low back pain can mean almost anything, but if you feel constant numbness or stiffness in part of your back, it could be spondylolisthesis. That's a mouthful for a slipped disc and you just want it fixed. We're proud to bring you an award-winning orthopedic team.
Spondylolisthesis, or slipped disc, is when a vertebra (usually in the lower back) moves forward far enough to slip onto the bone below. It’s most common in adults with arthritis, but can happen to anyone. It causes abnormal wear on the cartilage of the spinal cord. You may experience low back pain, tight hamstring muscles or tenderness where the vertebra is off-track.
Treatments for Slipped Disc
Treatment for spondylolisthesis, also known as slipped disc, depends on the severity of your symptoms. Typically, your care plan starts with rest, medicine and physical therapy. A non-surgical approach is usually enough to alleviate pain.
What if you’ve made all the lifestyle changes recommended and are still in pain? Usually if pain or other symptoms persist after six months, your doctor may suggest surgery. Surgery is effective, but does have a long recovery period. Discuss your preferences and options with your doctor.
Treatments We Provide
Epidural Steroid Injection
An epidural steroid injection is a powerful combination of steroid and anti-inflammatory medicine injected directly in the spine. The full effect of pain relief can take up to two weeks to feel.
Laminectomy Surgery
This procedure removes the back part of the affected vertebra and may involve linking the affected vertebra to adjoining vertebra to maintain spinal strength. This happens with metal hardware and a bone graft.
Orthopedic Devices
Modifying your shoe with an insert or wedge can help elevate your heel to reduce pain and strain.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can teach you special exercises that strengthen nearby muscles and ease stress on connecting tendons and ligaments.
Spinal Fusion From the Back
An incision is made the length of the upper to middle back. Your surgeon will add rods to reduce curvature and add bone from either your spine, hip or collar bone to begin fusing bones together. Fusion usually takes three to six months. Depending on the severity of the curve, you may need additional surgery before a spinal fusion.
Spinal Fusion From the Front
If feasible, this procedure is a preferred approach to spinal fusion. On the front of your body, an incision is made at the rib, giving your surgeon the best view for middle to lower back spinal fusions. Discs are removed to loosen the spine. Instruments like rods and screws, as well as bone, are added to allow the spine to fuse together. Fusion takes from three to 12 months to be complete.
Spine Care Rehabilitation
When dealing with back and neck pain, it’s important to start with conservative care, such as physical therapy. Spectrum Health has a Spine and Pain Management Center dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of back pain.
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