Understanding Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a condition that can cause extreme back pain and other symptoms. The word defines a condition which involves anterior or posterior slippage of a vertebra in relation to the vertebra below. It is not as common as other back problems for adults, but represents the most common cause of back pain in adolescents. It most often occurs in the low back, especially at L4 or L5. However, it can occur at other segments along the spine. It can be very debilitating for some.

There are certain symptoms that are commonly associated with Spondylolisthesis. These might include stiffness of the muscles in the low back from the pelvis shifting forward. This can also result in tight hamstrings in the upper leg. Because the pelvis often slips forward in this condition, it is common for the individual to lean forward and have an abnormal gait. In some cases, the person may even waddle because of the rocking of their pelvis when they walk. The gluteal muscles or muscles in the buttocks can become weak because of not being used. They are often not used because of the leaning posture.

A person suffering from spondylolisthesis often has localized low back pain where the slippage is located. They may also have referred pain into the buttocks and legs. They may even feel symptoms into the feet. It is also common to have numbness and tingling in these areas. This is due to nerve irritation that results from misplacement of the vertebra. Pain may be referred along the course of the nerve which often includes the legs. Sitting or trying to get up can be very painful for these people.

The most common type of spondylolisthesis is isthmic spondylolisthesis. This is a condition marked by a defect in the posterior part of the vertebra. This defect may be present on one or both sides of the bone. The defect results in instability of the bone allowing the bone to slip forward when there is force applied to the area. There is much debate about whether the condition develops as a result of a genetic predisposition or due to trauma to the area that occurs early in life.

The most common ages for this to occur is between the ages of six and fourteen. This condition is also the most common cause of back pain for youth at this stage of their lives. There are certain sports that are recognized to causing isthmic spondylolisthesis including football, gymnastics, weight lifting and diving. These sports result in stress to the posterior part of the vertebra involved when bending backwards too far. This may occur with repetitive stress to the bone over a long period of time. Chiropractors are trained to find these types of conditions on X-ray.

Chiropractic is an effective drugless treatment option for those suffering with spondylolisthesis. Chiropractic adjustments can help to correct misplaced bones of the spine and remove nerve interference. Many with spondylolisthesis report excellent improvement and a reduction of symptoms following chiropractic treatment.