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  1. UAMS Health
  2. Conditions
  3. Spondylolisthesis

Condition: Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a condition that affects the position of the vertebra.  With spondylolisthesis, weakness in the vertebra causes the vertebra to slip out of normal positioning. Often, the weakness of the vertebra is due to a fracture, trauma or arthritis. This can cause a kink in the spinal nerves that leads to pain, numbness, or weakness in your back and legs.

At UAMS, we use several different diagnostic tools to diagnose spondylolisthesis. That includes:

  • X-ray
  • MRI
  • CT with or without dye

How You Can Contribute to a Healthier Spine

It is important to maintain a healthy spine by staying physically active, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight. Bone density also impacts your spine health. Ask your healthcare provider if you need a bone density exam. Maintaining a good bone density is important to reduce your risk of an osteoporotic fracture. There are medications that your doctor may prescribe that can increase your bone density and reduce your risk of fractures.

Another way to contribute to a healthy spine is to quit using nicotine products. Nicotine decreases the blood supply to your spinal discs and the bones in the spine. This has been shown to accelerate the degenerative changes in the spine. Nicotine users have been shown to have more spine pain. Nicotine cessation is very important for your spine health.spondylolisthesis

Treatments and Procedures Related to Spondylolisthesis

  • Physical Therapy
  • Steroid Injections

Providers Treating Spondylolisthesis

Note that every treatment or procedure listed above may not be provided by each provider listed below. Review each provider for availability.

David B. Bumpass, M.D.

David B. Bumpass, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon

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Noojan Kazemi, M.D.

Noojan Kazemi, M.D. Neurosurgeon

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Richard E. McCarthy, M.D.

Richard E. McCarthy, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon

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Samuel C. Overley, M.D.

Samuel C. Overley, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon

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T. Glenn Pait, M.D.

T. Glenn Pait, M.D. Neurosurgeon

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Areas of Expertise for Spondylolisthesis

Orthopedic surgeon working on female patient

Orthopaedics

UAMS Orthopaedics is recognized nationally and internationally for its expertise in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of musculoskeletal pain, conditions, and injuries. Our impact on the field of orthopaedics is …

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Physical therapy consultation with senior patient.

Physical Therapy (Part of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation)

At UAMS Health, our physical therapists use the latest equipment and innovations, providing personalized treatment plans to adults of all ages. We treat a variety of physical conditions requiring rehabilitation …

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Rearview shot of a sporty young man touching his neck while exercising outdoors

Spine Care

UAMS offers a complete range of services for the treatment of spinal conditions, whether they are due to an injury, degenerative condition, sports-related wear-and-tear, spinal tumors or a spinal deformity. …

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Make an Appointment

Request an appointment by contacting a clinic directly or by calling the UAMS Health appointment line at (501) 686-8000.

UAMS Health LogoUAMS HealthUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Mailing Address: 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 686-7000
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