Spondylolisthesis in Seoul, Korea

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English-speaking spondylolisthesis care made easy at one trusted clinic in Seoul. Discover Nucellin’s doctor-supervised spine treatments, transparent pricing, and real patient results—all in one place.

Welcome for International Patients

Back pain with standing, extension, or prolonged activity—sometimes with leg pain or tingling—can be due to spondylolisthesis (a forward slip of one vertebra). At Nucellin Orthopedic Clinic (Yongsan, Seoul), Dr. Kim Hee-Jun provides doctor-supervised, English-friendly care to reduce pain, stabilize your spine, and restore confident movement—often without surgery.

What Is Spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis occurs when a vertebra shifts forward relative to the one below it, commonly at L4-L5 or L5-S1. Causes include degenerative changes, pars defects (spondylolysis), or prior injury. Symptoms range from mechanical low-back pain to sciatica-type leg pain if nerves are irritated.

Common signs: pain with standing/extension, hamstring tightness, reduced core endurance, leg symptoms with walking, and relief when sitting or bending forward.


Final diagnosis follows exam and imaging (X-ray ± MRI) to confirm level, slip grade, and nerve involvement.

Our Non-Surgical Treatment Approach

1) Precise Assessment

Focused orthopedic/neurologic exam; review of standing lumbar X-rays (flexion/extension if needed) and MRI when nerve compression is suspected.

2) Conservative Care First

  • Targeted physical therapy: core stabilization, hip/glute strength, flexion-biased mobility, hamstring flexibility
  • Activity & load management: avoid painful hyperextension; posture and lifting mechanics; travel ergonomics
  • Supportive options: taping/bracing during flare-ups, heat/ice strategies
  • Home program: travel-friendly exercises with progressive milestones

3) Image-Guided Procedures (Case-by-Case)

  • Epidural steroid injections (ESI) for radiculopathy/leg pain
  • Facet joint injections / medial branch blocks when facet pain coexists
  • Trigger point injections for secondary muscle spasm
  • Regenerative options (PRP/stem-cell–guided) for eligible soft-tissue/joint issues
All procedures are performed with ultrasound and/or fluoroscopic guidance for accuracy and safety.

4) Return to Activity & Prevention

Graded return to walking, gym work, and sport; emphasis on core endurance, hip strength, and technique to prevent recurrence.

Why Choose Nucellin & Dr. Kim

  • Orthopedic specialist oversight from consultation to follow-up
  • English-speaking team with clear explanations and written aftercare
  • Integrated pathway: rehab + image-guided procedures + regenerative options when appropriate
  • Transparent pricing and travel-smart scheduling for expats, students, and medical visitors
  • Surgical coordination only when truly indicated (e.g., progressive neurologic deficit or high-grade instability)

What to Expect

  1. Consult & Exam — Bring prior X-rays/MRI if available.
  2. Personalized Plan — Goals, timeline, and cost estimate.
  3. Treatment Phase — Structured PT; add injections only if indicated.
  4. Return to Activity — Stepwise criteria for desk work, lifting, running/sport.
  5. Follow-Up — In-clinic or remote check-ins; prevention strategy.

FAQs (Quick)

  • Do all slips need surgery? No—many low- to moderate-grade cases improve with targeted rehab and selective procedures.
  • How long to feel better? Many patients improve within 4–8 weeks of consistent therapy; injections can speed relief for nerve pain.
  • Can I exercise? Yes—focus on core/hip strength and avoid painful hyperextension; we’ll guide progressions.
  • Can I travel after treatment? Usually yes; you’ll receive posture and movement tips for flights and long rides.

Pricing & Booking

We provide upfront, transparent pricing and itemized receipts (check your policy for reimbursement).
Ready for relief and stability? Book a spondylolisthesis evaluation with Dr. Kim Hee-Jun at Nucellin Orthopedic Clinic and get a clear, English-friendly plan in the heart of Seoul.