Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis causes an abnormal alignment of the spine. This can lead to serious pain.

Spondylolisthesis occurs when there is abnormal alignment of the spine when seen from the side (lateral view). The vertebra above slides forward relative to the one below it. This misalignment may result from several causes, including trauma or degeneration. 

There may be abnormal spinal motion associated with this condition. Spondylolisthesis may result in back or neck pain, but extremities can be involved if the spinal cord or nerve roots are compressed or irritated. Some patients do not present any symptoms however some patients will complain of muscle spasms, thigh and/or buttock pain, and/or tight hamstrings. 

Spondylolisthesis can be congenital (present at birth) or develop in adolescence or adulthood. The disorder may result from the physical stresses to the spine from physical activity, trauma, and general wear and tear. There are some treatments depending the severity of the spondylolisthesis. 

Most patients require only physical therapy combined with activity modification. If pain is arising from nerve root irritation, epidural steroid injection may be considered. For cases with severe pain not responding to therapy, if the slip is severe or there are neurologic changes, the slipping vertebra might be surgically fused to the vertebra below it. It is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor to decide which treatment is the best for you.

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