Spondylolisthesis is a back problem which is caused by the forward displacement of a vertebra, meaning that the vertebra slips forward in relationship to the vertebrae around it. This condition can be painful and potentially very problematic for the patient, causing difficulty walking and making it hard to work in a number of environments. It most commonly strikes the lower back, and is typically diagnosed with the assistance of x-rays, which are used to identify the vertebra which has slipped forward.
There are a number of different types of spondylolisthesis. One form is caused by a congenital birth defect, in which case it is known as dysplastic spondylolisthesis, meaning that the bone was malformed during fetal development. Isthmic spondylolisthesis is a form which emerges during childhood, while degenerative spondylolisthesis emerges in older people, especially African-Americans. Pathogenic spondylolisthesis is caused by things like tumors and some cancers, while traumatic spondylolisthesis is the result of a fracture which displaces the vertebra.
Lower back pain is one obvious sign of spondylolisthesis, although because it is linked with a number of conditions, these conditions must be ruled out before jumping to a spondylolisthesis diagnosis. Often, the patient also develops posture problems, leaning forward to take some of the strain off the back, and he or she may develop a waddling walk. Most notably, spondylolisthesis is linked with a tightening in the hamstrings and general decreased flexibility.
Once spondylolisthesis is diagnosed, treatment options vary, depending on the severity. In mild cases, physical therapy may be used to strengthen and tone the back, in combination with pharmaceuticals to ease inflammation and pain linked with the condition. In other instances, surgical options may need to be pursued to address the problem.
Because any disruption to the vertebral column can be very dangerous, it is important to pursue medical treatment for back pain, to determine the cause of the condition and to treat it, if possible. Failure to do so could result in severe injury, as well as a decreased quality of life. It is also a good idea to discuss all possible treatment options with a doctor. Some doctors are willing to discuss alternative or complementary medicine when it comes to back pain, and patients may be able to achieve relief by combining things like acupuncture and chiropractic with conventional medical treatment.