I can remember suffering from back pain all my life but thought it was normal. In the early 80's I started to suffer with Sciatica but, as it didn't affect my work too much, I didn't bother going to the doctors. I thought it was my fault as I used to lift heavy objects at work.

I have three sons and the back pain during my pregnancies went worse with each one. The pain gradually increased until one morning in September 1998, I woke up and found that I couldn't move. A few days later, when I could walk again, I went to see my G.P., who sent me for an x-ray and diagnosed Spondylolithesis. I'd never heard if it, but at least I knew what was causing it and could now get some help, or so I thought. My G.P. put me on Co-codamol and referred me to an orthopedic consultant. I finally saw him 6 months later but, was dismayed, to find out that the only thing that could be done to help me was major spinal surgery.

I moved house and changed G.P. who was more sympathetic and she put me on Neurotonin and Tramadol to ease the pain and recommended that I attend the Pain Relief Clinic. I got an appointment, finally, and was told about other options for pain relief(see Treatment Page) and I have also been back to the consultant and recently had an M.R.I. scan.

I find it difficult to get about and do everyday chores and I now use a walking stick some of the time. The pain can get unbearable and makes me depressed and sometimes I cannot walk. I suffer from numbness and pins and needles sometimes.

I would love to hear from you if you suffer from Spondylolithesis, tell me your story and how you cope. On the next pages is the technical stuff about Spondylolithesis, x-rays ,diagrams and other useful sites.