How Spondylolisthesis Differs from a Herniated Disc

Spondylolisthesis involves the vertically stacked bones (vertebrae) in the spine, while a herniated disc affects the cushioning structures between the vertebrae. Both conditions can irritate nearby nerves, reduce mobility, and cause moderate to severe pain.

However, we can’t build an effective treatment strategy until we understand what’s creating your pain. That’s why our award-winning, multispecialty team of medical professionals at Coastal Spine in New Jersey starts with a thorough evaluation.

Once we determine whether your symptoms are related to bones, discs, nerves, or all of the above, we create a plan tailored to your needs.

Here’s a message from our team about the differences between spondylolisthesis and a herniated disc, as well as the treatments we may recommend.

Understanding spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis (spohn-di-low-less-THEE-sis) occurs when a vertebra in your spine slips out of its normal position and moves forward over the bone below it. That can occur anywhere in the spine, but it’s most common in the lower (lumbar) back.

Aging, arthritis, stress fractures, congenital spine abnormalities, or traumatic injuries can cause this slippage.

Older adults are more prone to spondylolisthesis, but it can also occur in children and teens, typically during a growth spurt. Athletes involved in contact sports, gymnastics, or other activities that require frequent stretching or jumping are also at risk.

You may not have any symptoms if the spinal misalignment is minor. However, when the bones shift more dramatically, they can lead to symptoms such as:

• Back pain that worsens with movement
• Numbness or tingling in the legs (related to nerve compression)
• Nerve-related muscle weakness
• Difficulty standing or walking for more than a few minutes

Treatment may include physical therapy, bracing, and injection-based therapies to relieve pain and inflammation.

When conservative treatments aren’t adequate, we may recommend surgery such as lumbar interbody fusion to prevent vertebral shifting and stabilize the spine.

Understanding herniated discs

Between each vertebra is a soft disc that acts as a cushion and shock absorber. When the inner portion of the intervertebral disc pushes or leaks through the outer layer, it becomes a herniated disc.

Depending on the direction of the bulge, that can irritate or compress nearby nerves, often where the spinal nerves exit toward the arms or legs.

Causes include aging and degenerative changes, repetitive bending or twisting, and inappropriate lifting techniques.

Symptoms depend on where a disc is located, such as the cervical (neck) or lumbar spine, and can include:

• Sharp shooting pain down the leg or arm
• Numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or legs
• Muscle weakness
• Pain that worsens with bending, coughing, or lifting

Most herniated discs can be managed without surgery. Epidural injections, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle modifications can bring significant relief.

If your symptoms are severe or don’t respond to conservative treatment, you may benefit from a minimally invasive surgery, such as cervical discectomy.

When to seek care

We recommend you schedule an appointment if your back pain lasts longer than a few days or limits your ability to work, rest, or participate in your daily routine.

Many people put off coming in to see us, thinking they can “tough it out.” However, early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes and help prevent long-term nerve damage.

Schedule a visit at one of our five Coastal Spine locations by phone or online today.