SPONDYLOLISTHESIS

In this condition, damage to bones or joints causes the vertebrae to slip forward and distort the spinal cord. This animation will show two types of spondylolisthesis, degenerative and isthmic

Degenerative Spondylolisthesis

Degenerative Spondylolisthesis occurs when the joints weaken, allowing a vertebra to slip forward. Nerve roots may become pinched, causing pain to radiate to the legs and feet similar to a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.

Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

Isthmic Spondylolisthesis occurs when vertebral bone fractures, allowing a vertebra to slip forward. This can also pinch nerve roots, causing pain to radiate to the legs and feet.

Treatment Options

As with other pinched nerve scenarios, conservative care should be attempted as an initial step as well as back bracing and strengthening exercises.  Pain management injections such as epidural steroids may help alleviate the pain from the pinched nerve. Sometimes surgical fusion is necessary to realign the verterbrae.