What is Spondylolisthesis?

spondylolisthesisSpondylolisthesis is a spinal condition that affects the lower spine bones. When this occurs it causes one of the vertebrae to slip out of place and forward on the bone beneath it. In most cases, this disease is treatable. It is very painful and both therapeutic and surgery are often be required. 

Symptoms & Signs of Spondylolisthesis:

The signs and symptoms of spondylolisthesis are different from person to person. In mild cases, people may not experience symptoms. On the other hand, those who have severe cases it often interferes with their daily activities. 

Common symptoms of spondylolisthesis include:

  • Tenderness in lower back
  • Lower back pain which is persistant
  • Stiff legs and back
  • Thigh pain
  • Tight hamdstring muscles

Causes & Risk Factors:

Depending on age, family history and lifestyle the cause of spondylolisthesis may vary. Children tend to suffer from this disease from a birth defect or an injury. Although people of all ages are able to get this condition if it runs in families. When a child experiences rapid growth, this can also be a contributing factor of the cause.

When we play sports it puts us at risk to overstrech. This puts stress on your lower back. Certain sports that are more likely to cause this disease, such as:

  • Track & field
  • Weightlifting
  • Football
  • Gymnastics
  • Football

Spondylolysis typically occurs before spondylolisthesis. When there is a fracture in the vertebrae spondylolis occurs, however, it hasn’t yet fallen into a lower bone of your spine. This puts those at greater risk who have spondylolis.

Treatment for Spondylolisthesis:

How spondylolisthesis is treated typically depends on your pain level and the verebra slippage. There are some non-surgical treatments which can help relieve pain, such as:

  • Physical therapy
  • Back brace
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Epirdoral injections

Conservative methods should also be explored first before surgical considerations are on the table. However, in severe cases, surgery may be the first option, which would be a spinal fusion.

Spinal Fusion:

Spinal fusion involves techniques designed to mimic the normal healing process of broken bones. During spinal fusion, your surgeon places bone or a bonelike material within the space between two spinal vertebrae. Metal plates, screws and rods may be used to hold the vertebrae together, so they can heal into one solid unit.

If you are experiencing spondylolisthesis call us today to visit a spine specialist near you, at 888-409-8006. Offices conveniently located in South Florida; Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach & Plantation.