what is the name of the condition that results in the forward slipping of one vertebra on the one below it?
vertebra. The term means spine slip. This is clearly seen and measurable on routine x-rays. It should not be confused with the chiropractic community's concept of a vertebra being out (without any imaging abnormalities, including x-rays). The typical appearance of spondylolisthesis is one vertebra slipping forward on the vertebra below. Retrolisthesis is a term used to describe when a vertebra is slipping backward on the vertebra below. Lateralolisthesis describes the vertebra that is displaced to the side of the vertebra below. Rotatory listhesis is a degenerative condition where a vertebra rotates on the vertebra below. DIAGNOSIS Routine standing spinal x-rays are the best way to diagnose vertebral malalignment such as spondylolisthesis. Flexion and extension (patient bending forward and backward with maximum effort)