Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is the slippage of one vertebra adjacent to another. The condition of spondylolisthesis has degrees of severity from Grade I to Grade IV (Grade I being least severe and Grade IV being the most severe). Grade will be designated by the measure of displacement for the vertebra. Often times, patients can be diagnosed with spondylolisthesis and have no symptoms at all. Other times, spondylolisthesis can cause spinal cord compressed and nerve root irritation that can cause debilitating symptoms for a patient. Additionally, because the natural alignment of the vertebra is compromised, joints in the spine and even discs can become overworked and cause additional problems for a patient. What causes spondylolisthesis? As with most spine conditions, spondylolisthesis can be caused by a variety of factors. Congenital spondylolisthesis – This means the condition was present at birth. Degenerative spondylolisthesis – Condition developed over time due to the natural wear and tear of the spine Traumatic spondylolisthesis – Condition was the result of a traumatic incident such as a motor vehicle accident or slip and fall. Depending on the grade and the severity of symptoms, there are many different treatment options available to patients who have been diagnosed with symptomatic spondylolisthesis.