SPONDYLOLISTHESIS

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Spondylolisthesis is a disorder caused by a spinal vertebra slipping forward onto the bone below it.

This condition is most common in the lumbar region of the spine but can occur anywhere along the spine. The two most common types of spondylolisthesis are degenerative and spondylolysis.

If you are experiencing spondylolisthesis or want to determine the source of your symptoms, you can make an appointment with Alexander Bone and Spine Institute to discuss your best course of treatment

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE SPONDYLOLISTHESIS?

Spondylolisthesis can be caused by a number of different joint issues, including congenital defects, trauma to the joints, overuse, or stress on your joints from excess weight.

Patients may not experience any symptoms if vertebral slippage is slight. In many cases, however, spondylolisthesis can cause the following symptoms:

Pain, tingling or numbness that radiates down the leg or arm
Muscle spasms
Back or neck pain
Decreased mobility
Incontinence, if the nerves of the bowels/bladder are affected

WHAT IS THE RIGHT TREATMENT FOR ME?

The kind of treatment that we recommend for patients experiencing spondylolisthesis can vary. If you are a patient at Alexander Bone and Spine Institute, you will undergo an exam to test your range-of-motion and an x-ray to confirm the extent of vertebral slippage.

The kind of treatment needed is generally based on factors like overall health, age, and the severity of the symptoms you have experienced. Our first approach is a conservative treatment of your condition. This can include:

Rest
anti-inflammatory medication
steroid injections
physical therapy
We may recommend surgery if your symptoms are severe or worsen and more conservative approaches do not provide you with enough relief

Surgical treatments can include laminectomy, where the lamina portion of the vertebra is removed; or spinal fusion, which fuses together parts of the spine to stabilize it.

If you have questions about treating your condition, make an appointment for a consultation with us to determine the best course of action.