Spondylolisthesis is a condition where a vertebra slips forward of the surrounding vertebrae, causing back pain and difficulty walking. It can be diagnosed with X-rays and treated with physical therapy or surgery. Different types of spondylolisthesis exist, and it’s important to seek medical treatment to avoid serious injury. Alternative or complementary medicine may also be helpful.
Spondylolisthesis is a back problem caused by forward displacement of a vertebra, which means that the vertebra slides forward of the surrounding vertebrae. This condition can be painful and potentially very problematic for the patient, causing difficulty walking and making it difficult to work in different environments. It most commonly affects the lower back and is typically diagnosed with the assistance of X-rays, which are used to identify the vertebra that has slipped forward.
There are different types of spondylolisthesis. One form is caused by a congenital birth defect, in which case it is known as dysplastic spondylolisthesis, meaning that the bone was malformed during fetal development. Isthmic spondylolisthesis is a form that emerges in childhood, while degenerative spondylolisthesis emerges in older people, especially African Americans. Pathogenic spondylolisthesis is caused by things like tumors and some cancers, while traumatic spondylolisthesis is the result of a fracture that displaces the vertebra.
Low back pain is an obvious sign of spondylolisthesis, although since it is linked to a number of conditions, these conditions must be ruled out before moving on to a diagnosis of spondylolisthesis. Often, the patient also develops posture problems, leaning forward to relieve some of the strain on the back, and may develop a waddling walk. Specifically, spondylolisthesis is linked to a tightening of the hamstrings and a general decrease in flexibility.
Once spondylolisthesis is diagnosed, treatment options vary depending on the severity. In mild cases, physical therapy may be used to strengthen and tone the back, combined with medications to relieve inflammation and pain related to the condition. In other cases, surgical options may need to be pursued to address the problem.
Because any disruption to the spine can be very dangerous, it’s important to pursue medical treatment for back pain, determine the cause of the condition, and treat it if possible. Failure to observe this precaution could result in serious injury and decreased quality of life. It’s also a good idea to discuss all possible treatment options with a doctor. Some doctors are willing to discuss alternative or complementary medicine when it comes to back pain, and patients may be able to get relief by combining things like acupuncture and chiropractic with conventional medical treatment.
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