Spondylolisthesis
(Slipped Vertebra)
Pronounced: spoan-de-LOW-les-THE-sis
Definition
The spine is made of several bones called vertebra. They are lined up so the the spinal cord can sit through the center of the bones. Spondylolisthesis is when one of the vertebrae slips out of place. It moves forward compared to the vertebra below.
Spondylolisthesis
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Causes
Spondylolisthesis is most often caused by a stress fracture. The fracture can make the vertebra unstable and allow it to slip forward. This type of fracture often occurs when a lot of stress and pressure is put on the back. This can occur with certain sports activities.
The condition can also be caused by spinal problems that are present at birth, like spina bifida.
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase your risk of spondylolisthesis include:
- Rapid growth
- Being an athlete, especially gymnasts, weight-lifters, and football players
- Family history
Symptoms
Spondylolisthesis begins to progress at age 10-15 years. Symptoms may not appear until adulthood. In many cases of spondylolisthesis, there are no obvious symptoms. Symptoms that may be present include:
- Low back pain, which may feel like muscle strain
- Stiff back
- Muscle spasms of the hamstring
- Buttock pain and spasm
- Changes in posture and/or gait
- Numbness, weakness around the pelvis
- Loss of bladder control
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Images of the spine will be taken with:
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy usually involves exercise. The exercise will focus on strengthening the abdominal and back muscles. A back brace may also be recommended.
If you are overweight, your doctor may recommend you lose weight.
Medications
Pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may help manage pain.
Surgery
Surgery may be needed if the bone has severly slipped or you do not respond to treatment. Surgery will fuse two of the vertebra together. The procedure is called spinal fusion.
Prevention
Take the following steps to help protect your spine:
- Exercise regularly.
- Get plenty of rest between workouts.
- Take measures to protect your back when participating in sports.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org
North American Spine Society
http://www.spine.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org
REFERENCES:
Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.a... . Accessed December 28, 2012.
Spondylolisthesis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php . Updated September 6, 2012. Accessed December 28, 2012.
Last reviewed December 2012 by Mike Woods, MD
Last Updated: 12/28/2012