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Spondylolisthesis occurs when one of the vertebrae in the spine slides forward over the vertebra below it.
Often occurring at the base of the spine, spondylolisthesis causes one of the vertebrae to slip forward onto the vertebrae bone directly beneath it. The lower back is prone to this condition because it is often exposed to more pressure due to movements like heavy lifting and twisting the torso. Spondylolisthesis can be caused by traumatic injury, genetics, or age, and is organized by varying types and grades. While the pain spondylolisthesis can also vary, a doctor’s diagnosis is important to address symptoms and prevent further issues.
Symptoms of spondylolisthesis generally manifest in the lower back, legs, and buttocks. Ranging from mild to severe, pain from spondylolisthesis also includes stiffness, tightness, or tenderness of the lower region of the body. A degenerative condition, simple tasks such as standing, walking, or bending can become painful and worsen over time to feel impossible with spondylolisthesis. Spondylolisthesis can occur in children and adolescents as well as adults. With a wide variety of symptoms and levels of severity, an X-ray examination is necessary for accurate diagnosis.
To determine the right treatment, an evaluation and X-ray testing with Dr. Bruggeman is needed to get an accurate diagnosis of spondylolisthesis. While conservative pain management measures, such as physical therapy, medications, or injection therapy may be tried for temporary relief, minimally invasive surgical procedures may provide the best option for long-lasting pain relief. Removing excess slipped bone or fusing vertebrae together to return spinal stability can be options to discuss with Dr. Bruggeman to find the right path to pain relief for your individual case.
Take the first step toward a pain-free life. Use our online pain evaluation tool to determine what treatment may be right for you.
