Remedies for retrolisthesis

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Retrolisthesis is a rare medical condition usually happens in the lower area of the spine, but can also happen in the cervical area and rarely in the thoracic region. This condition happens when the disc found between the vertebrae is damaged.

Retrolisthesis happens when one vertebra slides and moves back throughout the intervertebral disc under or over it.

Types of retrolisthesis

retrolisthesis
Uneasiness in one area of the back.
  • Complete retrolisthesis, when a vertebra moves backward to the spinal segments above and below.
  • Partial retrolisthesis, when a vertebra moves backwards either to the spinal segment above or below.
  • Stair stepped retrolisthesis when a vertebra moves backwards to the body of spinal segment found above and ahead of the one found below.

Symptoms of retrolisthesis

  • Distortion of the spine or a bulge in the back
  • Uneasiness in one area of the back
  • Limited range of motion
  • Back pain
  • Other forms of pain in area of displacement
  • Numbness, tingling or a severe and pinched pain felt in the buttocks, hips, thigh, neck, shoulder, legs and arms.

Causes

  • Stress and traumatic fractures
  • Birth defects in children
  • Injury to the spine or around the spine
  • Arthritis, osteoporosis and rickets which makes the bones weak
  • Nutritional deficiencies of materials for maintenance of bone strength, and repair of disc, cartilage and nerves.
  • Weak core muscles that do not give stability on the back
  • Infections in the blood or bone

Treatment

  • Quit smoking to prevent further damage and deterioration of the joint.
  • If overweight, lose some weight to lessen the pressure placed on the vertebra and for fast healing of the condition.
  • Take prescribe vitamin supplement with manganese, copper, vitamin A, C and Zinc.
  • Using myofascial release with the help of the physical therapist. It is an applied kinesiology treatment that involves placing pressure on myofascial which result in restorative function. Myofascial release or massages restores the muscle tone and increase blood circulation in the area.
  • Using microcurrent therapy to lessen the pain and repair of the tissue. it utilizes low-level electric currents to lessen the inflammation, the swelling and the pain. It also releases muscle trigger points and improve regeneration of the soft tissue.
  • Apply a warm compress on the affected area for at least 10-15 minutes to lessen the pain.
  • Seek the help of the physical therapist for some proper techniques in lifting, bending and sitting. Exercises and physical therapy helps with losing weight and improve flexibility, mobility, strength and lessen the pain caused by the retrolisthesis.
  • Drink plenty of water. Water is a constituent of spinal disc cartilage and supports the height of the intervertebral disc.

 

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