ABOUT THE DISEASE

Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which a bone (vertebra) in the spine moves forward out of the proper position onto the bone below it. It can lead to a deformity of the spine as well as a narrowing of the spinal canal (central spinal stenosis) or compression of the exiting nerve roots (foraminal stenosis). It is most common in the low back (lumbar spine) but can also occur in the mid to upper back (thoracic spine) and neck (cervical spine).

SYMPTOMS

• • Back or buttock pain, which gets worse on bending.
• • Pain that runs from the lower back down one or both legs.
• • Numbness or weakness in one or both legs.
• • Difficulty walking.
• • Loss of bladder or bowel control.

CAUSES

• Defective joint since birth (congenital).
• Joint damaged by accident/infection/arthritis
• Stress fracture of vertebra due to overuse of the joint.
• Bone disease/ fractures

DIAGNOSIS

- Physical Examination
- X-Ray of the Spine
- MRI scan or PET scan

TREATMENT METHODS

The initial treatment for spondylolisthesis is conservative:

• Rest or avoiding activities such as lifting and bending
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Steroid (cortisone) injection
• Use of hyperextension brace

If the symptoms fail to improve with conservative treatment even after 3-6 months, surgery may be an option. The type of procedure is based on the type of spondylolisthesis and can be in form of Laminectomy or Spinal fusion.

You may also like to learn about:

Spondylosis
Sprain
Fractures
Spondylitis
Back Pain
Arthritis