Definition

Spondylolisthesis is when one a vertebra (spinal bone) slips forward onto the vertebra below it. It happens slowly over time.

Spondylolisthesis Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Causes may be:

• Abnormal structure of the vertebrae that is present at birth, such as spina bifida
• Spondylolysis—a stress fracture in the spine that makes the vertebra unstable
• Wear and tear from the normal aging process
• Trauma
• Diseases, such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
• Spinal surgery

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:

• Having a family member with this problem
• Having spondylolysis

Symptoms

Most people do not have symptoms. Those who do may have:

• Back pain and stiffness
• Pain that may spread down to the legs
• Muscle spasms in the back of the thighs
• Problems standing and walking
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in one or both legs

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done.

Images may be taken of the spine. This can be done with:

• X-ray
• MRI scan
• CT scan

Treatment

People who do not have symptoms may not need treatment. In others, the goal of treatment is to manage symptoms. Choices are:

• Supportive care, such as limiting activities to allow the area to rest
• Physical therapy to promote strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the back
• A back brace to stabilize the spine
• Medicines, such as:
  • Pain relievers
  • Muscle relaxants

People who are not helped by these methods may need surgery. It may also be done if the bone has severely slipped. Spinal fusion may be done to fuse two vertebrae together to stabilize the spine.

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.