Pronounced: spoan-de-LOW-les-THE-sis
by Krisha McCoy, MS
En Espaol (Spanish Version) Spondylolisthesis occurs when one of the vertebrae of the spinal column slips out of alignment, moving forward on the vertebra below.
2008 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.
Spondylolisthesis is most often caused by a stress fracture of a vertebra, which often occurs in sports activities that put a lot of stress and pressure on the back or overstretches the spine. The condition can also result from congenital disorders of the spine, which are disorders that are present at birth.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors may increase your risk of spondylolisthesis:
- Age: 10-15 (This is when most of the progression of the condition occurs, but symptoms may not appear until adulthood.)
- Rapid growth
- Being an athlete, especially gymnasts, weight-lifters, and football players
- Genetic predisposition
In many cases of spondylolisthesis, there are no obvious symptoms. But symptoms may include:
- Low back pain, which may feel like muscle strain
- Stiff back
- Muscle spasms of the hamstring
- Changes in posture and/or gait
- Narrowed spinal canal
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Other tests may include:
X-raya test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones (may be performed while you are standing) CT Scana type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body MRI Scana test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body TreatmentTalk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include: Physical TherapyPhysical therapy for spondylolisthesis usually involves exercise, especially exercises that strengthen the abdominal muscles and the extensor muscles of the back. A back brace may also be recommended.If you are overweight, your doctor may instruct you to lose weight. MedicationsPain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be recommended to help manage pain. InjectionsSteroid medication injections may help reduce pain. These injections are given around the nerves that exit the spinal cord. SurgeryIf the slippage of the vertebra is severe or if your pain does not respond to other treatments, surgery may be recommended. This may involve fusing two of the vertebra together in a procedure known as spinal fusion. Prevention Take the following steps to help protect your spine:
Exercise regularly.Get plenty of rest between workouts.Take measures to protect your back when participating in sports.Maintain a healthy weight. RESOURCES: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeonshttp://orthoinfo.aaos.org North American Spine Societyhttp://www.spine.org CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Orthopaedic Associationhttp://www.coa-aco.org Canadian Orthopaedic Foundationhttp://www.canorth.org References: Spondylolisthesis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php. Accessed July 2, 2007. Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=155&topcategory=Spine. Accessed July 2, 2007. Last reviewed May 2008 by Robert E. Leach, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
