SOMA Living May 2022

FROM THE DOCTOR

WHAT IS SPONDYLOLISTHESIS ?

Low back trouble is a common issue among most people. There are many ways a person can injure their back such as sprains, disc herniations, pinched nerves, or muscle strains. There is another injury that is also common to the spine or lower back called spondylolisthesis. This condition is when a vertebra slips out of place, resting on the bone below it. No matter what the cause, when the vertebra slips out of place, it puts pressure on the bone below it. There are different types of spondylolisthesis: Congenital spondylolisthesis, Isthmic spondylolisthesis, and degenerative spondylolisthesis. There are less common types such as traumatic, pathological, and post-surgical spondylolisthesis. Congenital spondylolisthesis occurs when a baby’s spine doesn’t form the way it should before birth. The misaligned vertebrae puts the person at risk for slippage later in life. Isthmic spondylolisthesis happens as a result of spondylolysis. The crack or fracture weakens the bone. Degenerative spondylolisthesis, which is the most common type, happens due to aging. Over time, the disks that cushion the vertebrae lose water. As the disks thin, they are more likely to slip out of place. The cause of spondylolisthesis is generally due to overextending the spine. Genetics may play a role, too. Some people are born with thinner vertebral bone. In older adults, wear and tear on the spine and disks (the cushions between vertebrae) can cause this condition. A patient may not experience any symptoms of spondylolisthesis. Lower back pain is typically the main symptom. The pain may extend to the buttocks and down the thighs. You may also experience: muscle spasms in the hamstring, back stiffness, difficulty walking or standing for long periods, Pain when bending over and numbness, weakness, or tingling in the foot. There are treatments out there but treatment depends on the grade of the slippage, your symptoms, age, and overall health. The patient may need medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Nonsurgical treatments include rest, medication, injections, physical therapy, and bracing. There are ways to prevent or minimize the risk of coming down with this condition such as regular exercise performance (for strong back and abdominal muscles), maintaining a healthy weight and eating a well-balanced diet. Nonsurgical treatments cannot undo the crack or slippage, but they can provide long-term pain relief. Surgery can relieve pressure on the nerves, stabilize the vertebrae, and restore your spine’s strength. While the condition won’t go away on its own, you can often experience relief through rest, medication, and physical therapy.

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