Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
Lumbar spondylosisthesis occurs when degenerative changes become severe enough that one vertebra begins to abnormally slip forward upon another. Terms such as subluxation or anterolisthesis are also used to describe spondylolisthesis.
Causes
Spondylolisthesis is usually caused by the degenerative effects of aging or a stress fracture from childhood. Spondylolisthesis can narrow the spinal canal and cause symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis, or pinch a nerve and cause symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy.
Symptoms
- Low back and/or buttock pain
- Radiating leg pain, numbness, weakness
- Cramping leg pain and numbness
- Difficulty standing
- Difficulty walking
- Heaviness in legs
Treatment
In adults, lumbar spondylolisthesis is initially treated by medications, physical therapy, and/or injections. Spinal fusion surgery is often necessary if conservative treatments fail.
