Spondylolisthesis Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Spondylolisthesis is a condition when one of the vertebrae (vertebrae) moves out of its proper position, either to the outside or to the inside. Usually, spondylolisthesis occurs in the lower or lumbar spine. However, it can also occur in the cervical (cervical) or upper (thoracic) spine. The symptoms of spondylolisthesis vary and sometimes there are no symptoms at all, so that sufferers are not aware that they have spondylolisthesis.
Spondylolisthesis is different from herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) or what is often known as a pinched nerve. In pinched nerve disorders, it occurs that part or all of the nucleus pulposus or the soft pads between the vertebrae change position or protrude. This protrusion can cause chronic pain and other nerve complaints.
Spondylolisthesis Symptoms
Symptoms of spondylolisthesis vary. In mild cases, the patient may not feel any complaints. In severe cases, this problem can cause an inability to carry out normal daily activities.
Some of the symptoms of spondylolisthesis include:
- low back pain that gets worse with activity and when standing, and often gets better with lying down. This pain is usually persistent.
- stiffness in the back and legs.
- pain in the lower back.
- Pain pain.
- tight hamstring and buttock muscles.
- pain, numbness or tingling sensation radiating from the lower back down the legs. This happens when there is pressure on a nerve.
- excess curvature of the spine (kyphosis).
Spondylolisthesis Reason
The causes of spondylolisthesis vary based on age, heredity, and lifestyle. Hereditary factors are suspected if this condition runs in the family regardless of age. In children, this disease may be caused by abnormalities or injuries from birth. Another possible contributing factor is the rapid growth during adolescence.
Exercise may also be a cause. Overstretching and stressing the lower back can occur with some forms of exercise, such as soccer, gymnastics, track and field, and lifting weights. Spondylolysis is also often the start of spondylolisthesis. This condition occurs when there is a fracture in the spine.
There are five main types of spondylolisthesis with different causes, namely:
- Birth defects of the spine
- Repetitive trauma to the spine which is usually frequently encountered in athletes
- Fragile spine joints and arthritis, which are often found in elderly patients
- Injury or sudden trauma to the spine
- Bone abnormalities that can be caused by tumors
Diagnosis
Physical examination is the first step in determining the diagnosis of spondylolisthesis. Someone who has difficulty lifting their legs straight out during the examination is one of the markers to confirm this condition.
Plain photo examination of the lower spine is also important to determine if the spine is out of place and if a fracture occurs. Other additional tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be needed if nerve compression is suspected.
Spondylolisthesis Treatment
Treatment for spondylolisthesis depends on the severity of the disease. Non-surgical therapy can generally help relieve pain and support the bone back into place. Patients should avoid sports and heavy physical contact during the treatment process.
Non-surgical treatment methods that are often used include:
- Take a short break, avoid activities such as lifting or sports that involve physical contact.
- Using a back brace.
- Physical therapy or physiotherapy exercises with basic stretching and strength training. This type of exercise can help increase the range of motion in the spine and hamstrings.
- Take drugs without a doctor’s prescription or anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) to reduce pain
- Steroid injections around the compressed nerves and into the spinal canal in cases of compressed nerves
Surgery is usually done for more severe cases, namely by spinal fusion procedures or fusion of the spine. The procedure is carried out under general anesthesia. Surgical therapy is usually needed in cases with very long displacements of the spine, cases that do not respond to non-surgical therapy, and if there is nerve compression.
Bone healing or spinal fusion after a spinal fusion procedure takes about four to eight months. The success rate of the procedure is very high.
The doctor will stabilize the spine using bone grafts and metal supports. During healing, bone support will be used when using an internal brace.
Prevention
One way to prevent spondylolisthesis is to prevent its cause. Especially the causes that can still be calculated. For example, avoid trauma or injury to the spine by being more careful.
In addition, it is important to stretch enough before doing the exercises. Also, avoid excessive exercise that burdens the spine. Flexibility exercises such as yoga can help make your muscles stronger, tougher, and more flexible, thereby reducing the risk of injury.