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Spondylolisthesis
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What is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition that affects the lower vertebrae (spinal bones). This disease causes one of the lower vertebrae to slip forward onto the bone directly beneath it. It’s a painful condition but treatable in most cases. Both therapeutic and surgical methods may be used. Proper exercise techniques can help you avoid this condition.
This disease causes one of the lower vertebrae to slip forward onto the bone directly beneath it. It’s a painful condition but treatable in most cases. Both therapeutic and surgical methods may be used. Proper exercise techniques can help you avoid this condition.
Spondylolisthesis Symptoms
- persistent lower back pain
- Muscle tightness and stiffness
- stiffness in your back and legs
- lower back tenderness
- thigh pain
- tight hamstring and buttock muscles
What are the types of Spondylolisthesis?
- Isthmic spondylolisthesis happens as a result of spondylolysis. The crack or fracture weakens the bone.
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis, the most common type, happens due to aging. Over time, the disks that cushion the vertebrae lose water.Â
- Traumatic spondylolisthesis happens when an injury causes vertebrae to slip.
- Pathological spondylolisthesis occurs when a disease — such as osteoporosis — or tumor causes the condition.
- Post-surgical spondylolisthesis is slippage as a result of spinal surgery.
Treatment of Spondylolisthesis
- Rest:Â Take a break from strenuous activities and sports.
- Medication: An over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen (Motrin®) or naproxen (Aleve®), can bring relief. If those don’t work, your healthcare provider may prescribe other medications.
- Injections: You receive an injection of steroid medications directly into the affected area.
- Physical therapy:Â A physical therapist can teach you targeted exercises to strengthen your abdomen (belly) and back. Daily exercises often relieve pain after a few weeks.
- Bracing:Â A brace can help stabilize your spine. The brace limits movement so that fractures can heal. Braces are not used in adults.
Risk for Spondylolisthesis?
Genetics:Â Some people with isthmic spondylolisthesis are born with thinner section of the vertebra called the pars interarticularis.
Age: As we age, degenerative spine conditions can develop, which is when wear and tear on the spine weakens the vertebrae.
Athletics:Â Young athletes (children and teens) who participate in sports that stretch the lumbar spine, such as gymnastics and football, are more likely to develop spondylolisthesis.