Spondylolisthesis

What is Spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis is a condition characterized by a misalignment of the vertebrae and is usually the result of a severely weakened vertebra due to a stress fracture. This fracture causes the vertebrae to weaken and shift from its normal anatomic position. The condition is common among young athletes that compete in high impact sports such as gymnastics, football and hockey. Athletes who participate in sports that require lots of twisting, turning, bending, and jumping are most at risk.

In older adults, spondylolisthesis is typically the result of a spinal fracture or degenerative disc disease. As the vertebrae or spinal discs weaken the vertebrae may slip out of place.

If you have spondylolisthesis the symptoms can include:

• Back pain
• Pain that radiates into the extremities
• Muscle spasms
• Spine stiffness
• Hamstring tightness/pain/tenderness
• Difficulty weight bearing

How is Spondylolisthesis Treated at The Spine Institute of Louisiana?

At The Spine Institute of Louisiana, the first course of treatment for spondylolisthesis is a non-surgical approach.

These treatments can include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy
• Bracing
• Injections

Surgical Treatment

In severe cases, or if non-surgical options have not alleviated the symptoms, a minimally invasive spinal fusion may be recommended by your Spine Institute of Louisiana Spine Surgeon.

During the procedure, your Spine Institute of Louisiana Spine Surgeon realigns the vertebra and joins it to an adjacent vertebra using small rods and screws. Following surgery, the joined vertebrae heal as a single bone, proper spine anatomy is restored and symptoms decrease.

Make an Appointment with a Spine Institute of Louisiana Spine Specialist Today

• If you have been experiencing symptoms of spondylolisthesis, schedule an appointment with one of our Board Certified Spine Surgeons.
• We will evaluate your unique lifestyle and goals to determine which type of surgery is best for you.