What Is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis describes a spinal defect that causes a vertebra to protrude forward or backward from the disc above or below. When this occurs, the vertebra exerts pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerve root causing pain and discomfort. Spondylolisthesis is most common in the lumbar spine (lower back). The condition often results from repetitive concussive vertical force on the spine and is common among athletes, specifically gymnasts.
The Different Types of Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis can occur for a variety of different reasons. At New Jersey Spine Institute, our exceptional spine specialists possess the expertise to treat all types of the condition, including:
Degenerative Spondylolisthesis
Degenerative spondylolisthesis occurs when the disc loses fluid over time and becomes unable to absorb shock and resist spinal movement. The condition is commonly found in older patients.
Spondylotic Spondylolisthesis
This condition occurs from a fracture in the spine, leading to the bone slipping out of place. It is seen in 5% to 7% of the population and is especially prevalent among adolescents.
Congenital Spondylolisthesis
Congenital spondylolisthesis occurs in individuals born with an abnormal spinal formation, which can result in the disc slipping out of place.
Causes of Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is characterized by one or more vertebrae that slip out of alignment and can have numerous causes, including the following:
- Repetitive force or injury to the spine
- Sudden trauma or impact (traumatic spondylolisthesis)
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Spinal fracture (including stress fracture)
- Genetic predisposition
- Congenital abnormalities
- Other conditions, including arthritis, tumors, and more
The condition can occur in individuals of any age but is most common in people over the age of 50. Other factors that may increase your risk of developing spondylolisthesis include:
- Gender – Spondylolisthesis is more common in women than in men.
- Athletics – High-performance athletes in sports that hyperextend the lumbar spine (gymnastics, football) are at increased risk of developing spondylolisthesis.
- Obesity – Extra weight places more pressure on the spine and can lead to spondylolisthesis as well as other types of back and neck pain.
If you are living with back pain and discomfort that is impacting your mobility and quality of life, spondylolisthesis could be the underlying cause. The world-class doctors at New Jersey Spine Institute are ready to help. Contact our office to book your appointment in Bedminster today!
Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis
The symptoms of spondylolisthesis can range from mild to severe and may vary from patient to patient. They commonly include one or more of the following:
- Lower back pain
- Tight and sore hamstrings
- Back and muscle spasms
- Walking with a gait or waddle
- Pain, numbness, or tingling that affects the leg and/or foot (Sciatica)
- Difficulty standing for long periods
The vertebral slippage associated with spondylolisthesis can make it difficult to perform daily activities such as walking, lifting, and bending. Call New Jersey Spine Institute to book an appointment and take the first step toward resolving your pain and discomfort.
Diagnosing Spondylolisthesis
At New Jersey Spine Institute, our team of specialists uses their extensive experience and expertise to ensure the accurate diagnosis of back pain. After taking a thorough medical history and asking you about your symptoms, an in-depth physical examination will be performed. If spondylolisthesis is suspected, further diagnostic tests may be ordered to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms and gain better visualization of the affected area. These may include an X-ray, CT scan, MRI, and/or myelogram (a test that uses an injection of dye to determine the extent of nerve compression in the spine).
The severity of spondylolisthesis is generally classified according to the Meyerding Grading System, as follows:
- Grade 1 – 1%-24% of the slipped vertebra is extended beyond the vertebra below.
- Grade 2 – 25%-49% of the slipped vertebra is extended beyond the vertebra below.
- Grade 3 – 50%-74% of the slipped vertebra is extended beyond the vertebra below.
- Grade 4 – 75%-99% of the slipped vertebra is extended beyond the vertebra below.
- Grade 5 – The slipped vertebra has completely slipped off the vertebra below (known as spondyloptosis).
Treatment Options for Spondylolisthesis
While severe cases of spondylolisthesis may require surgical intervention, the condition can often be effectively treated using more conservative treatment options. At New Jersey Spine Institute, our doctors are committed to developing a personalized treatment plan for each patient and will always begin with the least invasive approach possible.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Grade 1 and Grade 2 spondylolisthesis cases often respond well to non-surgical treatments including:
- Rest
- Activity modification
- Pain medication
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Spinal bracing
Surgical Treatments
Higher-grade cases of spondylolisthesis often respond best to surgical treatment. At New Jersey Spine Institute, our unique two-surgeon approach maximizes the relief of symptoms while also reducing recovery time. The most common surgeries for addressing spondylolisthesis are:
- Microdiscectomy – This minimally invasive surgery relieves spinal nerve compression and can ease pain and restore loss of function associated with spondylolisthesis.
- Spinal Fusion Surgery – Spinal fusion surgery increases the stability of the spine by fusing two vertebrae together with an implant. It may be performed in combination with other procedures such as a microdiscectomy or laminectomy, depending on the specifics of the case.
Spondylolisthesis at New Jersey Spine Institute
To receive an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan for your back and leg pain, book a consultation at New Jersey Spine Institute today! Dr. Dwyer and Dr. Vessa look forward to being by your side to help you treat spondylolisthesis and regain your quality of life.