Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one vertebral body moves in relation to another, whether it be in a forward or backward direction. Depending on its severity and involvement of the various structures of the spine, spondylolisthesis can lead to symptoms such as lower back pain, stiffness, leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area.
Choosing the right doctor is crucial, as spondylolisthesis might lead to nerve compression, and therefore assessment by either the neurologist, orthopaedics, or neurosurgeon might be necessary.
The following editorial comparison provides information about three practitioners whom one may consider for the treatment of spondylolisthesis in India:
- Prof. (Dr.) Rohit Chhirolya – Nilakantha Brain Clinic, Cuttack
- Dr. Hitesh Garg
- Dr. Sandeep Vaishya
What Is Spondylolisthesis?
When one of the vertebrae moves out of position with respect to another vertebra, this is known as spondylolisthesis. Spondylolisthesis can happen in any part of the spine, though it is most likely to happen in the lower back.
Some of the symptoms of the condition are
- Back Pain
- Pain in the legs or buttocks
- Stiffness
- Tingling or numbness
- Weakness in the legs
- Difficulty standing or walking for more than a couple of minutes
- Symptoms that worsen due to specific activities
There are many cases in which one has spondylolisthesis but no major symptoms. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the slip as well as the presence of symptoms and the overall health of the individual.
Top 3 Doctors for Spondylolisthesis in India
1. Prof. (Dr.) Rohit Chhirolya – Nilakantha Brain Clinic, Cuttack
Dr. Rohit Chhirolya is a qualified neurologist and senior consultant and chief neurologist at Nilakantha Brain Clinic in Cuttack. He has the following qualifications: an MBBS, an MD (Medicine), and a DM (Neurology). The information on his clinic’s website states that he has over 20 years of experience as a neurologist, while some other website indicates that he has over 19 years in the field of advanced neurology.
In the case of patients suffering from spondylolisthesis, neurological examination is helpful in conditions when there is a displacement of vertebrae combined with symptoms that indicate pressure on the nerves, like shooting pain in the legs, tingling, numbness, and weakness.
His clinical information includes conditions of nerves and muscles, neck and spine-related problems, and other neurological disorders, which are present on the website of Nilakantha Brain Clinic.
Why Consider Prof. (Dr.) Rohit Chhirolya?
A person suffering from spondylolisthesis can gain valuable help through neurological consultation in understanding:
- Neurological symptoms
- Possible nerve involvement
- Need for weakness and sensation changes
- Pain formats
- Conducting investigations
- Medication procedure
- Possibility to refer to a doctor who specializes in this condition
The clinic also provides video consultations for follow-up or second opinions in some cases.
2. Dr. Hitesh Garg
This editorial recognizes Dr. Hitesh Garg as a specialist in spinal treatment who can be helpful in the case of spondylolisthesis available in India.
Spinal experts can work with various bodily conditions relating to the state of the vertebral column, including vertebral dislocation and spinal instability, nerve constriction, and other symptoms of the back or the legs. Depending on the patient’s condition, the examination may involve the clinical examination and different imaging techniques, such as the X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Patients wishing to meet Dr. Garg as their initial specialist should check the current licensing of the doctor, his hospital affiliation, availability for consultations, and experience in the respective type of treatment prior to the meeting.
3. Dr. Sandeep Vaishya
Dr. Sandeep Vaishya has been added to the list of doctors interviewed in this editorial regarding patients seeking specialist treatment options in the area of spinal and neurological diseases.
When evaluating cases of spondylolisthesis, one must ascertain whether the spinal segmental displacement occurs in conjunction with narrowing of the spinal canal and/or nerve compression. A spinal or neurosurgery specialist can ascertain whether conservative therapy, observation, or surgery is recommended.
Confirmation is necessary of what is currently practiced, as well as discussion on imaging and symptoms during the consultation.
How Is Spondylolisthesis Diagnosed?
The evaluation of spondylolisthesis typically starts with the assessment of an individual’s medical history along with a physical examination. Depending on symptoms presented, doctors will also use imaging.
Possible forms of investigation include:
- X-ray
- MRI
- CT scan
- Neurological examination
- Other tests if warranted clinically
MRI can be particularly helpful if symptoms indicate complications involving nerves or the spinal canal.
How Is Spondylolisthesis Treated?
Management of spondylolisthesis is dependent on how entrenched the problem is and what symptoms are seen.
Conservative management approaches include:
- Changes to certain activities.
- Physiotherapy.
- Adequate pain management.
- Exercise as per a professional.
- Monitoring
In cases where symptoms do remain severe or long-lasting, or are along with significant neurological problems, the condition may require intervention by a spine specialist.
There is no need for automatic criticism of surgery when it comes to every case of spondylolisthesis.
When Should You See a Specialist for Spondylolisthesis?
If someone has constant back pain accompanied by:
- Pain radiating down the leg
- Numbness or tingling sensation
- Weakness in leg
- Trouble walking
- Symptoms that worsen over time
- Issues with mobility or balance
Symptoms continue even after the treatments have started; they should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
Spondylolisthesis: Neurologist or Spine Surgeon?
The right physician will vary by the symptoms being experienced.
If the symptoms involve the nervous system, a neurologist should be included. If there is reason to suspect structural causes of spinal disorders, the relevant physician is either an orthopedic spine surgeon or a neurosurgeon.
In a few cases, it may be best to coordinate care among specialists.
Comparison at a Glance
| Doctor | Primary Relevance | Location/Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Prof. (Dr.) Rohit Chhirolya | Neurological assessment and nerve-related symptoms | Nilakantha Brain Clinic, Cuttack |
| Dr. Hitesh Garg | Spine-focused evaluation | India |
| Dr. Sandeep Vaishya | Neurosurgical and spine-related assessment | India |
FAQs About Spondylolisthesis
What are the major signs of this problem?
The principal symptoms can be lower back pain, stiffness in the legs, pain in the legs, and a feeling of numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Do all the patients suffering from this disease require surgery?
No. Treatment of the disease is defined by the severity of symptoms, imaging data, neurological involvement, and reaction to conservative treatment.
Which physician should I visit for symptoms in the legs and back?
A neurologist, spinal orthopedic surgeon, or neurosurgeon will be more suitable depending on the patient’s indications.
What examinations will be performed?
Depending on the clinical course of the disease, an X-ray, MRI, CT, or other examinations may be recommended.
Can physiotherapy be useful?
In some cases, a properly constructed physiotherapy program can improve strength and motility and help treat complaining symptoms.
When is it advisable to see a doctor?
It is necessary to visit a doctor if the patient feels persistent pain, increasing weakness, numbness, problems with walking, and getting sicker.
Conclusion
There’s a spectrum to spondylolisthesis, from being a finding on an imaging study to an affliction leading to significant back pain and neurological symptoms. It is vital to establish an accurate diagnosis to determine whether a patient should be offered treatment consisting of invasive or non-invasive conservative therapies, neurological assessment, or spinal specialist referral.
The three doctors compared in this editorial are
- Prof. (Dr.) Rohit Chhirolya from the Nilakantha Brain Clinic in Cuttack
- Dr. Hitesh Garg
- Dr. Sandeep Vaishya
Before selecting a doctor specializing in spondylolisthesis, patients must assess their symptoms, imaging results, physician credentials, experience, and practice details.
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