All About Spondylolisthesis

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Spondylolisthesis is a common condition of the spine and affects many people each year. It is usually triggered in adults by the presence of degenerative diseases such as arthritis. Children may also suffer from the ailment in case of a birth defect or a sudden injury. Here's a closer look at the same.

Spondylolisthesis may be defined as a condition where one vertebra slips forward over another vertebra below it. The lower and lumbar back are most susceptible to this health problem as both these areas bear a lot of weight and absorb huge amounts of pressure. The protruding vertebra may even press against a nerve causing pain and discomfort. In certain cases, there are may be no symptoms in the initial stages of the disease, and they usually only appear a few years later.

Common symptoms of Spondylolisthesis include low back pain and numbness or weakness of the legs. Sufferers may also experience hamstring tightness, difficulty in walking or pronounced limping. One could develop leg, back or buttock pain that worsens with bending or twisting, along with symptoms of sciatica as well.

Spondylolisthesis can be broadly classified into several categories. The dysplastic or congenital form of the condition is usually caused by a malformation of the lumbrosacral joint that allows the vertebra to move out of position.

Isthmic Spondylolisthesis is the most common form of the disease and affects about 5-7% of the U.S. population. First signs and symptoms of the ailment are usually noticed between the ages of 6-16 years. However, in most cases, it does not progress or even turn symptomatic. Children or teens who participate in sports requiring hyperextension- such as in the case of swimming or gymnastics- are most vulnerable to the problem. Football linemen and weight lifters are also at significant risk of developing the same.

Traumatic Spondylolisthesis is caused by the fracture of a part of the vertebral body or joint due to an accident or trauma. Putting substantial pressure on the spine can also cause the same problem. On the other hand, the degenerative form of the condition, usually affects adults of age 50 and above. Here, the vertebra becomes unstable and slips forward due to the presence of a degenerative ailment such as joint disease or arthritis.

Pathologic Spondylolisthesis is a rare form of the condition and usually occurs in conjunction with other ailments such as Paget's disease, metastasis of cancer to the bone, giant cell tumors or tuberculosis that affects the skeletal system.

The only way to remedy Spondylolisthesis and eliminate accompanying symptoms is to get an early diagnosis of the problem. Knowing the nature and severity of the problem will help you find an appropriate treatment method for yourself.