Spondylolisthesis usually is diagnosed with anX-ray.
Low-grade spondylolisthesis may be relieved with non-invasive measures, while more severe cases may require a surgical procedure.
Each vertebra should be neatly stacked on the one above and below.
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In spondylolisthesis, the vertebrae shift from their normal position.
As a result, the condition is often referred to as “slipped vertebrae.”
Forward slippage is calledanterolisthesisand backward slippage is calledretrolisthesis.
Sometimes the condition is not discovered until an X-ray is taken for an unrelated injury or condition.
This is because sitting and bending open up the space where spinal nerves are located, relieving pressure.
Genetics may play a role in the risk of spondylolisthesis.
Degenerative spondylolisthesis, the most common bang out, tends to affect adults over the age of 40.
Treatment
Spondylolisthesis is treated according to the grade.
Over the course of treatment, periodic X-rays may be taken to determine whether the vertebra is changing position.
During the procedure, the surgeon will realign the vertebrae in the lumbar spine.
Small pieces of bonecalled a bone graftare then placed into the spaces between the vertebrae to be fused.
Over time, the bones grow together, much like when a broken bone heals.
Metal screws and rods may be installed to further stabilize the spine and improve the chances of successful fusion.
In some cases, patients with high-grade slippage also have compression of the spinal nerve roots.
Summary
Spondylolisthesis is a spine condition in which a vertebra slips out of position.
This may cause symptoms like low back pain and back stiffness.
Spondylolisthesis happens when a vertebra slips out of position.
Spondylosis may lead to spondylolisthesis, as a fracture in a vertebra may cause it to slip.
Those with spondylolisthesis should avoid movements that put great stress on the spine, such as lifting heavy objects.
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