Spondylolisthesis Overview:
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which damage to the bones or joints in the spine causes a vertebra to slip forward. This, in turn, may cause a nerve root to be pinched or irritated, radiating pain to the legs and feet. Causes of spondylolisthesis vary based on age, lifestyle and heredity. Children may suffer from the condition as a result of injury (especially in sports like football, gymnastics, wrestling, weightlifting and track and field), and rapid growth during adolescence may also be a contributing factor. If this condition is present in the family medical history, any age is at risk.
There are two types of spondylolisthesis:
- Isthmic spondylolisthesis occurs when vertebral bones fracture, allowing a vertebra to slip forward. This condition typically occurs in the lower regions of the lumbar spine.
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis occurs when the facet joints weaken, often due to osteoarthritis, allowing a vertebra to slip forward. Degenerative spondylolisthesis is most common in people over the age of 65 and is three times more likely to affect a woman than a man.
Symptoms & Treatment
Symptoms:
The most common causes and symptoms are:
- Persistent lower back pain
- Stiffness in the back and legs
- Sciatic pain
- Changes to a person’s posture and gait
- Tight hamstring and buttocks muscles
- Leg, back or buttocks pain increases when bending over or twisting
- In some cases, loss of bowel/bladder control
Treatment
Treatment options depend upon the severity of pain and vertebra slippage. The most common treatments are:
- Education
- Physical therapy
- Medication
- Injections
- Back braces
- Activity modification
- Surgery (last option)
Typically, a combination of treatments works best to treat spondylolisthesis.
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Common Questions
When can I expect to resume my normal activities?
Many people with spondylolisthesis are able to resume their normal activities after treatment. You’ll want to speak with a SpineOne physician to plan your particular treatment and get back in the swing of things.
Where can I get treatment for spondylolisthesis?
SpineOne is Denver’s premier medical center for the treatment of spine-related conditions and disorders, including spondylolisthesis. We recommend you call and schedule an appointment with one of our highly qualified physicians and start improving your quality of life.
