Spondylolisthesis is a condition that occurs when one vertebral body slips with respect to the adjacent vertebral body causing radicular or mechanical symptoms or pain. It is graded based on the degree of slippage of one vertebral body on the adjacent vertebral body. Any pathological process that can weaken the supports keeping vertebral bodies aligned can allow spondylolisthesis to occur. Spondylolisthesis is an injury that affects the spine. It involves the fracture and slipping of one vertebrae relative to the others. While this may sound like a terrible injury, it can often be undiagnosed due to not causing any symptoms. In cases where it is diagnosed, it is important to understand its cause, symptoms, and treatment .
Types of Spondylolisthesis:
Degenerative spondylolisthesis usually affects the lumbar (lower back) spine, more frequently at L4-5 levels. Spondylolisthesis arises from a result of the periodic wear and tear of the spinal components causing the joints between the vertebrae to slide forward. The slip may lead to spinal stenosis and nerve root compression. It is commonly observed in women aged above 60 years.
Isthmic spondylolisthesis is a spinal disorder in which one vertebra slides forward over the vertebra below. It usually affects the lumbar (low back) spine, more frequently at L5-S1 levels (the fifth lumbar vertebra and first sacral vertebra). More common are among the younger age group, this condition is caused by a defect (which may be congenital) or a fracture (caused by excessive spinal stress) of the pars interarticularis; a bone that joins the upper and lower facet joints in the back of the spine.
Symptoms of this condition may include:
- Pain in the lower back, buttocks, and thighs
- Difficulty with bowel and bladder control
- Waddling gait
- Tight hamstrings
