Spondylolisthesis
Overview
Injury to bones or joints can cause vertebrae to slip forward and distort the spinal cord. This condition is considered spondylolisthis and there are two types: degenerative and isthmic.
Causes of Spondylolisthesis
It can follow for any amount of reasons. One reason might be that a joint was damaged in an accident; on the other hand, it could be caused by a defective joint since birth. This condition using occurs between the lumbar vertebra (the fifth bone in the lower back) and the first bone in the pelvis (sacrum) area, but only when dealing with children. In this case, it is often due to a birth defect of the spine. Acute trauma can also be a causing factor. However, in adults the most public cause is irregular wear on the bones in cartilage. High activity sports (sports like weight lifting, football, gymnastics, etc.) can give the bones in the lower back much stress. These athletics also necessitate the athlete to hyperextend the spine. A stress factor – on either one or both sides of the vertebra – can be led from hyperextension. A stress factor can force a spinal bone to come to be frail and move out of place. And last, fractures and bone disease are also causes for this condition.
Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis can give the leg or back pain. It can also relentlessly limit any activity. It has a tendency to arise in the lower spine and it can cause the spinal cord or the nerves being pinched. Weakness and severe discomfort can be experienced through the legs when this happens.
There are many common signs that can be found with this condition. Look for lower back pain, stiffness, tenderness, tight muscles, discomfort in the thighs and buttocks, and weakness and pain in the legs.
Diagnosis of Spondylolisthesis
Plain radiographs are typical used to diagnose this condition. An x-ray from the side (lateral x-ray) will give any indication of a slipped vertebra. Spondylolisthesisis graded according to the percentage of the slipped vertebra versus the vertebra next to it. There are five grades, with Grade 1 being up to a 25 percent slip, and Grade 5 being a 100 percent slip. A CT scan or MRI scan can also help identify compression of nerves.
Treatment of Spondylolisthesis
Schedule an appointment with a specialist to determine the exact spine condition and best plan for correcting it. During the examination, your spine will be felt by the specialist or assistant. Exercises like raising the leg will be asked from the doctor and it may be uncomfortable. X-rays will show if a broken or out of place bone is in the spine.
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