Question
I have a retro L5 on S1 . Hypothetically can use of a drop table worsen ( cause to shift)this condition. Also are standing vs lying down x-rays likely to look differet i.e retrolisthesis??
Thanks
JP

Answer
JP,

There is no evidence that the retrolisthesis will worsen with any form of manual therapy.  Yes, trunk posture, loaded by standing or sitting as compared to lying supine can show a difference in the listhesis if it is unstable or "loose."   There was a small article published years ago that demonstrated better assessment of anterlisthesis instability by taking the x-ray with the patient standing in two modes: weighted with a back-pack and suspended as the subject hung from a bar (feet dangling).   This showed more change in the listhesis as compared to standing bent forward vs. standing bent backward.   MRI studies on discs have demonstrated changes to the disc when supine verses seated, thus the advent of seated MRI machines (I wish we had one in Massachusetts).   

'Hope this helps answer your question.

Dr. G