Spondylolisthesis iscondition that occurswhen one spinal vertebralbody slips forward relativeto another. It can occuranywhere along the spine,but typically occurs in thelumbar region.Spondylolisthesis is lesscommon among youngchildren, occurringprimarily in adolescentsand adults.
IntroductionSpondylolisthesis is condition that occurs when one spinalvertebral body slips forward relative to another. It can occuranywhere along the spine, but typically occurs in the lumbarregion. Spondylolisthesis is less common among young children,occurring primarily in adolescents and adults.
SymptomsSymptoms resulting from spondylolisthesis vary. Some peoplehave no pain or other symptoms. In extreme cases, the deformitymay be a visible increase in the curvature of the spine in thelumbar region, which can affect movement. Often there is mild tomoderate low back pain, particularly after exercising. If the forwardslippage compresses a nerve, leg pain often develops.
CausesSpondylolisthesis can be caused in several ways. The majority ofcases occur in the elderly when the joints that allow the spine tobend forward (facet joints) wear with age and allow one vertebra toslip over another. In other cases, subjecting to spine to a suddenor repeated force may cause spondylolisthesis. Adolescentathletes that perform repetitive hyperextension, such as gymnasts,may be at increased risk for spondylolisthesis.
SummarySpondylolisthesis may or may not require treatment depending onwhether symptoms include pain or disability. Non surgicaltreatments may include modifying activities to reduce stress on thespine, physical therapy, medications or injections to reduce painand inflammation, or wearing a brace. In severe cases or thosethat are progressively worsening, surgery may be performed tocorrect the condition.
