Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, M.D.

Our vertebrae are held in place by strong soft structures throughout the spinal complex, but if these structures or the vertebrae themselves break down, support for the vertebral section can wane. When this happens, one or more vertebral sections can shift relative to the other sections. When one section moves backward relative to the vertebra below it, it’s known as spinal retrolisthesis. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at why it develops, what symptoms it brings and how the condition can be effectively treated.

Causes And Symptoms Of Retrolisthesis

As we mentioned above, spinal retrolisthesis is categorized by a posterior displacement of a vertebral segment. Oftentimes it develops in the cervical or lumbar portion of the spine, as these regions are less stable than the thoracic section in the middle of the spine. It’s a condition that tends to be more common in older adults because it is more likely to occur when degenerative changes have occurred within the spine. Facet joint arthritis, ligament weakening and disc degeneration are all underlying risk factors for retrolisthesis onset. Aside from these underlying risk factors, the condition can also develop as a result of acute injury, chronic/repetitive stress, prolonged poor spinal posture or due to a genetic predisposition.

Symptoms of retrolisthesis can range in severity depending on how the shifted vertebra is affecting nearby structures. Some may experience mild discomfort, while others could experience severe neurological impairment. Symptoms include:

• Local or radiating pain
• Stiffness
• Reduced range of motion
• Numbness
• Tingling sensation
• Muscle weakness
• Posture changes
• Bowel/Bladder dysfunction

For more information about spinal retrolisthesis or other spinal conditions, connect with Dr. Sinicropi and the team at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.

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