Retrolisthesis

DEFINITION: Backward sliding of one vertebra relative to the one below it: Grade I – 1-25% Grade II – 25 – 50% Grade III – 50 – 75% Grade IV – 75 -100% BENEFICIAL POSES: Salabhasana, Dhanurasana, Eka Pada Viparita Dandasana, Paripurna Navasana, Ardha Navasana, Parsvottanasana. EXPLANATION: Contraction of back muscles has two effects: arching the back, which 1. Exerts gentle forward pressure on the vertebra that has slid backward , and 2. opens the front of the vertebrae, giving room for the backward placed vertebra to slide forward.. Doing these extension poses facing downward further engages gravitational forces to move the errant vertebra forward and back in line with those above and below it. After these three intensely extending poses, it is wise to conclude with Dandasana, Paripurna Navasana, Parsvottanasana. REFERENCE: The authors found no studies of yoga for retrolisthesis, or spondylolisthesis in general, but these poses are recommended by Loren Fishman, MD on the basis of decades of clinical experience.