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Our Approach to Treating

Spondylolisthesis

Physicians and surgeons at NYU Langone’s Spine Center offer research-based care for people who have spondylolisthesis, a condition in which a vertebra—one of the bones that make up the spine—slips forward and out of place. For some people, the condition causes chronic low back pain. 

In younger people, spondylolisthesis may occur as the result of a fracture in the vertebra, called spondylolysis, which may be present at birth or may develop as a result of an injury. In adults, a vertebra may move out of place as the result of age-related joint degeneration, such as osteoarthritis of the spine

NYU Langone spine specialists in orthopedics, neurology, and neurosurgery use sophisticated imaging techniques to determine the location and extent of a displaced vertebra. These experts work together to recommend treatment designed to alleviate pain and restore function, helping you return to an active lifestyle as quickly as possible.

NYU Langone doctors also diagnose and manage spondylolisthesis in children and adolescents.

Treatment for Spondylolisthesis

Most of the time, nonsurgical treatment, such as physical therapy and over-the-counter pain relief medication, is all that’s needed to relieve discomfort from spondylolisthesis. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if a slipped vertebra presses painfully on a nearby nerve, surgery may be an option.

Our Research and Education in Spondylolisthesis

Learn more about our research and professional education opportunities.