Spondylolistheis

Spondylolistheis (stress fracture)

What is it?

Spondylolisthesis occurs when a vertebra in the lower spine slips forward and onto a bone below it.

Causes, Symptoms and Risk Factors

Spondylolisthesis can affect people of any age. Causes include:

• Birth defects
• Osteoarthritis
• Fractures or other injury

Symptoms of spondylolisthesis may include:

• Pain in the lower back, buttocks or thighs
• Muscle tightness
• Back stiffness
• Tenderness
• A feeling of weakness in the legs

People at particular risk:

• Are children with birth defects or are older people experiencing deterioration in the spine resulting from normal wear and tear
• Play contact sports or participate in extreme sports
• Do work or other physical activities that put strain on the spine
• Have had a spinal injury

Tests

A doctor will diagnose spondylolisthesis by performing a physical examination, reviewing symptoms and medical history, and conducting imaging test, such as X-rays, an MRI or CT scans. 

Treatments 

Treatment for spondylolisthesis includes:

• Undergoing physical therapy
• Modifying lifestyle and activities
• Wearing a back brace