Hi Daisy,

I'm sorry for what you're going through. I have the same condition. Spondylosis is the degeneration of the discs between vertebrae in the spine. The "listhesis" part means at least one disc is now sliding ahead of the disc below it, possibly putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. Pressure on the sciatic nerve causes pain, sharp pain, in the back of one leg. The lower back itself isn't affected by pain, but that's the source of the pain in the leg.

I'm 70 y/o now, and I have all these problems with my lumbar spine. I'm also very active at the gym (everyday) and work with a trainer to keep all my core muscles in shape. The core muscles surround the lower back - there are around 30 of these muscles. My spine Dr. has told ne my strong core is all that is standing between me and fusion surgery.

I don't know if this is an option for you (getting to a gym, ideally with a well-educated trainer), or if you already exercise. Just a thought. It's not easy at our age to go through these lower back problems.

All the best to you Daisy!

Joe