What’s the Difference Between Spondylosis, Spondylolysis, Spondylolisthesis, and Spondylitis?
Back pain can be confusing — especially when your scan report is full of long, similar-sounding words like spondylosis, spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis, and spondylitis.
They might sound alike, but they mean very different things. Understanding what’s going on in your spine can help you make sense of your symptoms and get the right treatment.
At Thrive Physio Erina, we help people across the Central Coast manage and recover from back pain every day. Here’s how to tell these conditions apart — and what you can do about them.
Spondylosis — “Wear and Tear” of the Spine
Spondylosis is the medical term for degenerative changes in the spine — essentially, spinal arthritis. It’s common as we get older and involves gradual wear of the discs, joints, and bones in your back or neck.
Typical symptoms:
Stiffness or aching, especially in the morning
Occasional nerve pain or tingling if a disc presses on a nerve
Pain that improves with movement
Treatment:
Physiotherapy to improve joint mobility, posture, and core strength
Regular exercise like walking, swimming, or Pilates
Pain management with heat, stretching, or in some cases, medication
In advanced cases, your GP may recommend imaging or refer you to a specialist
💡 At Thrive Physio Erina, we focus on gentle movement and strengthening to keep your spine as mobile and pain-free as possible.
Spondylolysis — A Stress Fracture in the Spine
Spondylolysis is a stress fracture in the vertebra, most often in the lower back (usually at the L5 level). It’s common in young athletes who do a lot of hyperextension — think gymnastics, cricket fast bowling, or dancing.
Typical symptoms:
Localised lower back pain that worsens with extension (bending backwards)
Tight hamstrings or stiffness after sport
Sometimes pain radiates into the buttocks
Treatment:
A short rest period from aggravating movements
Gradual return to sport with guided physiotherapy
Core and glute strengthening to support the spine
Posture and movement retraining
In most cases, conservative management works really well, and athletes can return to full activity once pain-free and strong.
Spondylolisthesis — When One Vertebra Slips Forward
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, often because of a prior spondylolysis (fracture) or degenerative changes.
Typical symptoms:
Low back pain or tightness
Leg pain or tingling if a nerve is compressed
Feeling unstable when standing or walking for long periods
Treatment:
Physio-led exercise to strengthen the deep core and stabilise the spine
Posture and activity modification
Sometimes, bracing or medical review if the slip is severe
Surgery is rare and reserved for significant instability or nerve compression
Our Central Coast physiotherapists can assess the severity and tailor a plan to restore stability and movement confidence.
Spondylitis — Inflammation of the Spine
Spondylitis refers to inflammation of the spinal joints, often related to autoimmune conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis.
Typical symptoms:
Morning stiffness that improves with movement
Pain that can affect the lower back, hips, or buttocks
Fatigue or flare-ups associated with inflammation
Treatment:
Regular movement and exercise therapy — staying active is key
Anti-inflammatory medication (as prescribed by your GP or rheumatologist)
Postural and breathing exercises to maintain spinal mobility
Physio-guided stretching and strengthening to prevent stiffness
Early diagnosis and the right management plan make a huge difference in long-term outcomes.
In Summary
Getting the Right Care
While these spinal conditions sound similar, their causes and treatments can be very different. That’s why it’s so important to get a proper assessment from a qualified physiotherapist.
At Thrive Physio Erina, our team specialises in helping people across the Central Coast understand and manage their back pain — whether it’s due to wear and tear, inflammation, or injury.
We’ll assess your movement, explain what’s going on in plain English, and build a plan that helps you feel stronger, more mobile, and in control of your pain.
Book an appointment today and take the first step toward lasting back pain relief.
