To understand what anterolisthesis means it is first necessary to understand the meaning of the word vertebrae. Vertebrae are bones that form an opening in which the spinal cord passes. These bones are stacked one on top of another, as shown in the picture below. Each individual bone that makes up the vertebrae is called a vertebra. The thick, drum-shaped part of the bone that forms the front part of the vertebra is known as the vertebral body. Because the discs are positioned between the vertebrae, they are known as interverterbral discs. The discs are flat and cushiony and act as shock absorbers. In anterolisthesis, the upper vertebral body is positioned abnormally compared to the lower vertebral body. More specifically, the upper vertebral body slips forward upon the one below it. The amount of slippage is graded on a scale from 1 to 4 (or I to IV in Roman numerals). Each grade (starting at grade I) means that the slippage has increased another 25% of the vertebral body. So Grade I anterolisthesis means that there has been 25% slippage, Grade II antherolisthesis means there has been 50% slippage, Grade III anterolisthesis means there has been 75% slippage, and Grade IV anterolisthesis means there has been 100% slippage. Thus, Grade I anterolisthesis is mild and Grade IV anterolisthesis is severe. Anterolisthesis is often caused by bone fractures. To relieve symptoms, take homeopathic medication - Hypericum 30 4 Pills x 4 hourly x 7 days Revert after 15 days.