Q:
How is retrolisthesis diagnosed?
A:
A doctor will start by reviewing a person’s general health and the symptoms the person is experiencing. After the examination, if a doctor suspects retrolisthesis, he/she may recommend a lateral X-ray which is taken when the person is standing up.
A doctor will examine the X-ray, likely drawing several lines on it to compare the positions of the vertebrae and measure how far the vertebrae has slipped out of position. Any slippage over 2 millimeters is considered an indication of retrolisthesis.
The X-ray can also outline any other symptoms that may indicate whether a person has retrolisthesis. Some additional signs may include:
- bone spurs
- shorter disc heights
- gas trapped between vertebrae
- hardened arteries around the vertebrae
Please consult your doctor for more information.
Keyword: retrolisthesis diagnosed.