Spondylolisthesis is a condition in the low back that can cause low back pain and radiating leg pains. It is caused by one vertebral segment slipping forward over another segment, usually L4 over L5. The result is abnormal stress and irritation on the nerves in the lumbar region (which extends down the legs). This condition usually is due to a defect in the bone in that area, either injury induced or congenital in nature.

The symptoms usually include low-back pain, low-back muscle spasms and quite often leg pain that may be in the back or sides of the thighs. The leg pain may even extend down to the lower leg and feet and may be in one or both legs.

Treatment may sometimes require surgery, but this is not the first course of treatment unless absolutely necessary. The usual course of treatment involves modalities to control and decrease the pain and muscle spasm, then a consistent therapeutic exercise regime to stabilize the low back with muscle control. These exercises should be performed consistently from that time on.