Is  a posterior displacement of one vertebral body.

This is the opposite of Spondylolisthesis which is the anterior displacement.

Displacement of the vetrebrae can be found in the cervical [neck] and lumbar [lower back].

Less often retrolistheisis can be seen in the thoracic area [mid back].

Joint stability is a large concern, worsening displacement can be concerning to the health of the patient.

 Symptoms

Are often variable between patients

-    Back pain
-    Back stiffness
-    Tingling in back
-    Difficulty with walking
-    Pain after sitting for periods of time
-    Difficulty with movement
-    Neurological signs

Classification

1.)  Partial

-  One vertebra is posterior
-  Partial refers to the severity of the change
-  Typically seen only to the body of the spinal segment adjacent
-  Compared to the vertebra either above or below

2.)  Complete

-  One vertebra is posterior
-  Complete refers to the severity of the change
-  Typically seen when positioning is posterior to both the vertebral body
-  Compared to the vertebra both above or below

3.)  Stairstepped

-  One vertebra is posterior
-  Stairstepped refers to the severity of the change
-  Typically seen only to the body of the above
-  Yet it is anterior to the one below

Grading

Grade 1 – up to 1/4 of posterior displacement

Grade 2 – between 1/4 and 1/2 of posterior displacement

Grade 3 – 1/2 to 2/4 of posterior displacement

Grade 4 – 3/4 to 1 or total occlusion of posterior displacement

Diagnosis

X-ray is essential for diagnosis

CT scan is a more exact evaluation of the vetrebral bodies.

Treatment

Stretching

Heat or Warmth placed on area

Physical Therapy

Medications

-  Nsaids
-  Tylenol
-  Stronger pain medication in some cases

Back injections

Surgery in some cases