Overview
A slipped vertebra can come from a stress fracture in teen athletes or wear and tear in older adults.
It may cause back pain and tight hamstrings, or pain down the legs.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Low back pain
Less common
- Leg pain
When to get medical care
Causes
Stress fractures, wear.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Gymnasts
- Football linemen
Diagnosis
X-rays show it.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- X-ray:
Treatment
Rest and strengthen.
Self-care
- Core exercises
- Avoid arching sports for a while
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Core strength
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a rheumatologist (joint and immune system doctor).
Living with it
Support groups and helplines
- Arthritis Foundation: Helpline, exercise programs, and online community.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Gymnasts and football linemen: Higher risk.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Manageable.
Most improve with therapy.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- Can I keep playing sports?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.