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What Is Grade One Retrolisthesis?

Retrolisthesis is a back condition in which one vertebra is pushed out of place, usually due to injury. A grade one retrolisthesis is the most minor kind.

  1. Grades

    • Four different grades are used to measure the severity of a retrolisthesis. Grade one is the most minor, with the vertebra only slightly misaligned (up to 25 percent), while grade four is the worst, with the vertebra completely misaligned.

    Causes

    • A blow to the spine can knock vertebrae out of alignment, causing retrolisthesis. The instability that results can press a vertebra further out of position, worsening the condition.

    Symptoms

    • Because grade one retrolisthesis is a relatively minor condition, symptoms are usually mild. A patient may experience back instability or pain. In more severe cases, which can develop if the condition is not treated, spinal damage can occur.

    Treatment

    • For grade one retrolisthesis, nonsurgical treatment is usually possible. Physically realigning the vertebra should allow the condition to heal.

    Surgery

    • Surgery is rarely needed to correct grade one retrolisthesis. However, if the retrolisthesis poses a significant health risk, surgery may be used to realign the spine.

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