Clinical information
Understanding the diagnosis
Degenerative, isthmic and other forms exist. Some are incidental findings, while others cause pain, sciatica or difficulty walking.
The presence of a slip on imaging does not by itself determine the need for surgery. Symptoms, neurological examination, mobility between levels and response to conservative treatment must be considered together.
Symptoms and context
Associated problems
- Mechanical lower-back pain
- Sciatica or loss of strength
- Difficulty walking due to stenosis
- Progressive vertebral slip
- Persistent symptoms despite conservative treatment
Case review
Second opinion
A second opinion helps distinguish when decompression alone may be enough and when instability makes stabilisation necessary, as well as reviewing the number of levels involved.
How to request a second opinion →