My 23 year son has had back pain for a few weeks since doing a dumbell lift at the gym and Xray showed Grade 1 anterolisthesis of L5 as well as a chip off the L4 spinous process.  He works as a carpenter.  Do you think there is going to be a problem for him to continue this career, what can he do to protect it from progressing and is there anything he needs to avoid?
Hi welcome to Chat Doctor Your sons back pain while working in Jim is not a serious problem.  Only he has to be on rest for few days.  Human body has thermostatic power and has self-healing capacity .  Stop exertion for the time being. Over exertion is dangerous. Should take rest as long as he can. There will be no problem in continuing his career. Only thing is , he avoids bending backward & jerking of his body too much . A teaspoon of turmeric in cup of hot milk at bedtime, helps to strengthen the bones .and give resistance to body. Occasional check up is must, from your treating doctor.  Hope this helps in solving your