Arthritis Health Center

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Doctors often suggest physical therapy to build up stomach and back muscles (core strengthening). In overweight people, weight loss may also help.

When pain is extreme or bones continue to move, or if there is nerve root or spinal cord damage related to the spondylolisthesis, surgery can sometimes help. Surgery may be done to remove bone or other tissue to take pressure off the spinal cord or nerves (decompression). Or surgery may be done to fuse the bones in position. Sometimes both decompression and fusion are done during the same surgery. A newer surgery that uses a man-made ligament to make the spine more stable is also being done for mild to moderate spondylolisthesis. After any of these surgeries, you may need to wear a cast or back brace for a while. Later, rehabilitation therapy will help make your muscles stronger and movement easier.