Cervical Spondylolisthesis Treated in Houston, Cypress, Tomball & The Woodlands, TX

Spondylolisthesis occurs when a spinal vertebra shifts out of alignment with the adjacent vertebrae. If one of the first seven vertebrae in the neck (cervical spine) is affected, the condition is referred to as cervical spondylolisthesis. Usually, the misaligned vertebra slips forward over the vertebra immediately below it, potentially creating pressure on the spinal cord or a spinal nerve root.

Spondylolisthesis frequently affects the lower back (lumbar spine), which is subjected to a significant amount of stress during daily activities. The condition is less common in the neck. When cervical spondylolisthesis develops, it is usually secondary to a traumatic neck injury, arthritis or age-related spinal degeneration.

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Spondylolisthesis?

Cervical spondylolisthesis characteristically causes neck pain and stiffness, which may radiate into the shoulders. If the misaligned vertebra presses on sensitive nerve tissue, numbness and tingling sensations may be felt in the arms and hands. Additionally, in severe cases, cervical spondylolisthesis can cause weakness, difficulty walking or incontinence. These symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.

Typically, cervical spondylolisthesis can be diagnosed with a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT) scans.

How Is Cervical Spondylolisthesis Treated?

Spondylolisthesis of the neck requires specialized care from an orthopedic spine surgeon who can identify the cause and suggest an appropriate treatment plan to manage the associated discomfort. If you have symptoms or have already been diagnosed with cervical spondylolisthesis, you can consult with R. Alexander Mohr, MD. A board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon, Dr. Mohr practices with Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine in Houston, Cypress, Tomball and The Woodlands, Texas.

Dr. Mohr takes a conservative approach to neck pain treatment. He also believes that educated patients make the best decisions. To help you learn about your condition, he will review your imaging scans with you, explain your diagnosis, answer your questions and discuss the reasoning behind his specific recommendations, which may include:

• Medications – Effective pain management may relieve your symptoms and allow you to resume your normal activities. Dr. Mohr can explain which medications are appropriate for you, including over-the-counter and prescription options.
• Physical therapy – A physical therapist can suggest exercises to help you strengthen the muscles that support your neck and increase your range of motion. He or she can also help you modify your daily activities to minimize your pain.
• Steroid injections – When injected directly into the affected area of your neck, powerful anti-inflammatory medications (corticosteroids) can provide temporary—but potentially long-lasting—relief from painful swelling.

Do You Need Surgery for Cervical Spondylolisthesis?

Conservative treatment is often effective for managing the symptoms of cervical spondylolisthesis. However, if your discomfort persists or worsens, Dr. Mohr may suggest surgery, such as a spinal decompression or fusion procedure.

If persistent pain or other symptoms of a cervical condition are interfering with your active lifestyle, Dr. Mohr can help. Request an appointment to meet with him at his office in Houston, Cypress, Tomball or The Woodlands, TX, today.