Spine Conditions
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis - commonly called "spondy" - is the forward slipping of one vertebra above another vertebra in the lumbar (lower region of) the spine. You may develop this condition at any age.
Cause
The cause of the condition is not exactly known but may be due to the orientation of the vertebrae of your lower spine or the result of the breakdown of some elements of your spinal column.
Symptoms
Symptoms of spondylolisthesis include sciatica. Sciatica is a set of symptoms, which may include pain felt in the lower back, buttock, and/or various parts of the leg and foot. In addition to pain, which is sometimes severe, there may be numbness, muscular weakness, or difficulty in moving or controlling the leg, and lower back pain. The severity of spondylolisthesis is graded from Grade I to Grade IV; Grade IV indicates the biggest slip of the vertebra.
Diagnosis
Typically, images are taken of the spine to determine if there is evidence of a forward slipping vertebra.
Treatment
Your surgeon will determine, based on the amount of slippage and severity of symptoms, if you require an operation to stabilize the spine and perhaps return the slipped vertebra to a more normal orientation. Not all spondylolisthesis require an operation. Speak with your doctor to learn more about treatment options most suitable for you.
