Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis happens when one vertebra in the spine slips forward over the one below it. It most often affects the lower back, and it ranges from mild and symptom-free to more serious.
Spondylolisthesis.One vertebra slips forward over the one below it, which can irritate the surrounding tissue and nerves. What is seen on imaging does not always match symptoms.
People often learn they have spondylolisthesis from an imaging report after ongoing low back pain, and want to know what it means for everyday activity.
About spondylolisthesis
It can develop from age-related joint changes, from a stress injury to part of the vertebra, or from a condition present from birth. Severity is usually graded by how far the vertebra has moved.
Some people have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they often involve low back pain, tight hamstrings, and discomfort with standing or extending the back. Your healthcare provider can tell you what grade you have and what activity is appropriate.
Common symptoms
- Low back pain, often worse with standing or arching the back
- Tight hamstrings
- Pain into the buttock or thigh
- Numbness or tingling in a leg
- Stiffness
Common causes
- Age-related changes in spinal joints
- Stress injury to the vertebra, common in some sports
- Repetitive back extension
- A condition present from birth
- Prior injury
How High-Pressure Cryotherapy (HPC) may help
High-Pressure Cryotherapy (HPC) uses high-pressure carbon dioxide (CO₂) to rapidly cool the skin over a specific treatment area. For spondylolisthesis, treatment goes on the sore areas, often the lower back and buttock. HPC does not move a vertebra back into place and does not claim to. For many people it may help manage pain and inflammation in the surrounding tissue, though results vary. We want your provider involved, especially for higher grades or if you have leg symptoms. A typical series is 4 to 5 sessions, then we reassess. Many patients report relief after one or two visits, although individual responses may vary. If there is no meaningful improvement after the series, see a qualified healthcare provider. HPC does not reposition the spine. It treats the sore area, and for many people it may help manage pain and inflammation.
Every treatment begins with a free consultation. Typical treatment takes about 3–6 minutes per area. HPC is not a substitute for medical care and does not replace a diagnosis.
A drug-free, needle-free option
No drugs. No needles. No incisions. No downtime. And we only treat if we think we can help.
Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Can HPC correct a slipped vertebra?
No. HPC does not change the position of the spine. It treats the sore area, and for many people it may help with pain and inflammation. Results vary.
Should I check with my doctor first?
If you have not had this evaluated, or you have leg weakness, numbness, or changes in bladder or bowel control, please see your healthcare provider first. We review your history at a free consultation.
How soon can I be seen?
Same-day appointments are often available at our Mineola and Rockville Centre locations. Book online or call and we will find the earliest time that works for you.
How many visits might I need?
For most people, we recommend an initial series of four to five sessions, then we check how you are doing. Many patients report relief after one or two visits, although individual responses may vary. Your plan depends on your situation, and we review how you are doing along the way. Results vary.
What does a visit cost?
The first treatment area is $90, with lower prices for additional areas, and discounted packages are available at our Rockville Centre location. See our pricing page for details.
This page is educational and is not medical advice. Individual results vary.
Related conditions
Lower Back Pain
Pain involving muscles, joints, discs, or ligaments of the lumbar spine.
Learn more →Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing in the spine that can crowd nearby nerves and cause back, leg, or arm symptoms.
Learn more →
Sciatica
Pain that may travel from the lower back into the buttock and leg.
Learn more →What patients say
Mineola
Rockville Centre
Reviews are provided by Google. Individual experiences and results vary.
Ready to learn whether HPC may be right for you?
We'll discuss your symptoms, answer your questions, and determine whether treatment may be appropriate for your individual needs.