Spondylolisthesis

Description

A spinal condition in which a bone in the spine, called a vertebra, slips forward onto the bone below it.

Overview

Spondylolisthesis is more likely to happen in people who do activities that put stress on the bones in the back. This includes sports such as gymnastics and football. Also, genes, age and health history may raise the risk.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the location of the slipped vertebra and how bad it is. If the slip is mild, there may not be symptoms. If the slip presses on nerves, there may be pain or numbness in the parts of the body near the slip. A severe slip could crowd the nerves, causing weakness in the arms or legs or changes in bowel and bladder function.

Treatments

For pain relief, treatment of spondylolisthesis may include physical therapy, medicine or injections. Seek urgent medical care if symptoms of muscle weakness or changes in bowel or bladder function develop. Surgery may be needed if the slip is severe.