Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Spondylolisthesis
What is a spondylolisthesis?
The bones that make up the spine are called vertebrae. Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one vertebra slips forward over the one beneath it. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment option for managing spondylolisthesis, helping to reduce pain, improve stability, and restore normal movement.
How does a spondylolisthesis happen?
A spondylolisthesis occurs when there is damage to the rear portion of a vertebra. Normally, this part of the vertebra acts as an anchor to prevent the vertebra from slipping forward. When it is damaged, the vertebra can move forward over the one below it, resulting in spondylolisthesis.
What are the symptoms of a spondylolisthesis?
A spondylolisthesis causes pain in the lower back that worsens with activity, especially movements that involve extending or arching the back. The pain can sometimes radiate into the buttocks, back of the thighs, and lower legs. In some cases, spondylolisthesis produces no noticeable symptoms and may be discovered incidentally on an X-ray of the lower back. Other possible symptoms include:
- Muscle tightness or spasm in the lower back
- Weakness or numbness in the legs
- Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
- Pain that increases with activity and improves with rest
- Changes in posture or a noticeable curve in the lower back
- Reduced range of motion in the lumbar spine
What should I do if I have a spondylolisthesis?
If you have or suspect you have a spondylolisthesis, you should avoid activities that aggravate your pain and seek a physiotherapy assessment as soon as possible.
Physiotherapy treatment for a spondylolisthesis.
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing spondylolisthesis. A physiotherapist will first assess and diagnose the condition, determining its severity. This may involve imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. Based on the assessment, they will create a personalized treatment plan aimed at reducing pain, improving spinal stability, and restoring function.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the lower back and surrounding muscles to provide stability and support.
- Core stabilization exercises to improve the strength of deep spinal muscles.
- Postural training and education to minimise strain on the lower back during daily activities.
- Pain relief techniques such as heat, ice, or electrotherapy if needed.
- Guidance on activity modification to prevent further slippage or aggravation.
- Rehabilitation exercises following any surgical intervention, if required.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a spondylolisthesis?
If you have or suspect a spondylolisthesis, it’s important to avoid activities that exacerbate your pain until you have been assessed by a physiotherapist. Continuing such activities could cause further forward slipping of the vertebra, worsening your condition and potentially prolonging recovery.
Could there be any long-term effects of a spondylolisthesis?
A spondylolisthesis is a structural issue that doesn’t correct itself naturally. However, with physiotherapy, most people can manage their symptoms effectively and continue with daily activities and hobbies without long-term limitations.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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