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When a bone of the spine slips forward relative to the one beneath it, it’s called spondylolisthesis, a condition that, depending on its cause, location, and severity, can cause varying levels of discomfort and pain, mobility problems, and nerve damage.
Dr. Aqib Zehri of Portland, Oregon, specializes in diagnosing and treating spondylolisthesis, so you can count on our team when problems occur. There are six types of spondylolisthesis, and in today’s blog, we look at each type and its treatment.
1. Congenital (dysplastic) spondylolisthesis
Present at birth, congenital spondylolisthesis typically affects the lower spine. However, symptoms typically take time to present, usually in later childhood and adolescence.
After a diagnosis, Dr. Zehri may recommend monitoring the condition if the patient has mild or no symptoms. More serious symptoms often respond to physical therapy and modifications of activities that aggravate the problem.
When the condition progresses and becomes serious, surgery may be necessary.
2. Degenerative spondylolisthesis
As you get older, years of wear-and-tear can start to show. Better known as osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, this degenerative activity can also affect the spine.
Typically causing problems like back pain, leg pain, and spinal stenosis, degenerative spondylolisthesis is common in older adults. Treatments include therapeutic injections, physical therapy, and decompression or fusion surgeries if the problem becomes severe.
3. Isthmic spondylolisthesis
A form of the condition that can affect active, younger people, isthmic spondylolisthesis occurs because of defects or stress fractures that allow vertebrae to slip. Associated with repeated motions that extend the spine, it’s often associated with sports activities.
4. Pathologic spondylolisthesis
Diseases sometimes affect bone tissue, and when the vertebrae suffer the effects, pathologic spondylolisthesis may result. Vertebra slippage happens when the effects of disease sufficiently weaken the bone.
Treatment of the underlying condition is usually the first step, followed by spinal stabilization and restoration to ease pain and improve function.
5. Postsurgical (iatrogenic) spondylolisthesis
Patients undergoing spine surgery for other reasons may develop spondylolisthesis as a result of the procedure. It may be a direct correlation or a result of changes to the mechanics of the spine after the procedure.
In mild cases, conservative treatments may be enough to control the condition. If the spine remains unstable, we may consider revision surgery.
6. Traumatic spondylolisthesis
Traumatic injury to the spine can cause the characteristic slippage of spondylolisthesis. It’s common after events such as car accidents that generate substantial impacts.
If the spine remains essentially stable after the event, treatment may focus on bracing and rehabilitation to promote healing and restore function. When instability remains, we consider surgical correction.
The best outcomes for spondylolisthesis conditions generally result from an early evaluation with Dr. Zehri. Mobility changes, leg symptoms, or persistent back pain may indicate a problem.
Contact Dr. Aqib Zehri by phone or online today to schedule a consultation and examination to evaluate your spine condition and explore treatment options.