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Prognosis is determined by the amount of slippage. If spondylolysis is discovered because of back pain and responds to therapy, there are usually no restrictions as long as there is no pain. The chance of developing spondylolisthesis is small. Many physicians recommend that exercises for stretching and strengthening back muscles be continued even after pain resolves. If, during the years of skeletal growth, the slippage is higher than Grade II, there is a greater potential for additional slippage as the child grows.

If spondylolisthesis is present in youth, close follow-up is necessary, especially for young girls. The risk of slippage is highest until the ages of 14-15. Non-strenuous sports may be acceptable but participation in any sports activities should be discussed with a health care provider before commencing.

Higher grades of spondylolisthesis have a more variable prognosis regarding low back pain and residual symptoms especially if radicular pain is present or if there is disk degeneration. Degeneration usually happens faster at the level of the spondylolisthesis than in other parts of the spine.

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