Spondylolisthesis
What Is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward onto the vertebra below it. The term originates from the Greek words “spondylos” (spine) and “listhesis” (to slip). This condition can lead to significant discomfort, especially if the misaligned vertebra compresses spinal nerves, causing pain in the lower back and legs. In severe cases, patients may experience loss of bladder or bowel control, requiring immediate medical attention.
At InfiniHealth Medical Group, we provide expert care to diagnose and treat spondylolisthesis, helping patients regain mobility and reduce pain.
Causes of Spondylolisthesis
The spine comprises vertebrae connected by facet joints, allowing for flexibility and movement. Spondylolisthesis occurs when these joints weaken, become injured, or deteriorate with age, allowing a vertebra to slip out of place. Common causes include:
- Congenital Defects: Abnormal facet joints present at birth.
- Trauma: Accidents or sports injuries causing joint damage.
- Repetitive Stress Injuries: Overuse from activities like gymnastics or weightlifting.
- Arthritis: Inflammation in the spinal joints due to age-related wear.
- Ligament Weakness: Compromised ligaments that fail to stabilize the vertebrae.
Causes of Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is graded based on how much one vertebra slips over another:
- Grade I: Less than 25% displacement.
- Grade II: 25–50% displacement.
- Grade III: 50–75% displacement.
- Grade IV: More than 75% displacement.
- Grade V: Spondyloptosis, where the vertebra completely falls off the one below.
Don’t let spondylolisthesis limit your life. Contact InfiniHealth Medical Group today
to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to a pain-free life.
Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis
Not all individuals with spondylolisthesis experience symptoms. However, common signs include:
- Lower back pain radiating to the legs
- Weakness or numbness in the legs
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Pain in the back or buttocks that worsens with bending or twisting
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (severe cases)
If you experience symptoms, especially loss of bladder or bowel control, seek immediate medical attention.
Treatment Options for Spondylolisthesis
We often begin with conservative methods to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Non-Operative Treatments
- Reducing or avoiding activities that worsen the condition, such as heavy lifting or high-impact sports.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or short-term narcotics.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the back, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on the spine.
- Hot and Cold Therapy: Alternating compresses to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Targeted injections to reduce nerve inflammation and provide temporary relief.
For cases unresponsive to non-operative treatments, we offer advanced minimally invasive options.
Diagnosing Facet Joint Syndrome
Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures
- Endoscopic Foraminoplasty:
Purpose: Reduces pressure in the foramen (the opening where nerves exit the spinal column) while preserving spinal stability.
Procedure: Through a ¼-inch incision, an HD camera guides the surgeon to remove bone spurs or tissue compressing the nerve. Conscious sedation ensures patient comfort and reduces recovery time. - Endoscopic Rhizotomy:
Purpose: Ablates affected nerves to minimize pain.
Procedure: A small incision and camera allow precise targeting of the nerve. - Endoscopic Laminotomy:
Purpose: Relieves nerve compression by creating a small opening in the lamina.
Procedure: Specialized tools remove the overgrown bone, decompressing the spinal cord.
Post-Treatment Recovery and Outlook
Recovery depends on the treatment method:
- Non-Surgical Care: Pain typically improves within weeks with physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Most patients resume daily activities within a few weeks, with full recovery in three to four months.
Patients undergoing minimally invasive treatments report a 90% success rate, with significant pain reduction and improved mobility.
Alleviate Your Pain, Regain Your Freedom
At InfiniHealth Medical Group, we specialize in personalized care for spinal conditions like spondylolisthesis.
Our expert team utilizes cutting-edge technology and minimally invasive techniques to deliver effective treatment while minimizing recovery time.
Don’t let back pain control your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey to recovery.