Spondylolisthesis is one of the conditions affecting the spine and causing its instability. Usually, a vertebra slips out of its place over the vertebra below it. This typically occurs in the lower portion of the spine but can also happen in the middle or upper back.
Lumbar spondylolisthesis is relatively common, but most people don’t experience any symptoms. A 2021 study examining lumbar spondylolisthesis in Beijing discovered that 1 in 6 middle-aged adults suffer from this condition.
So, what exactly causes vertebrae to slip out of place, and what are the symptoms? Read on to learn more about spondylolisthesis and how to find the best treatment in Spring, TX.
What Are the Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis symptoms can vary in type and intensity, and some people don’t even experience them. A vertebral slippage usually pinches nearby nerve roots and damages soft tissues, causing symptoms. The most common ones include:
- Low back pain
- Stiffness
- Neck pain
- Difficulty bending over
- Numbness and tingling in legs
- Leg weakness
- Muscle spasms
- Pain that gets worse when standing for a long time
Seeking spondylolisthesis treatment is vital, even if your symptoms seem mild. The condition is known to worsen over time, so you need to prevent that from happening with the right medical assistance.
The Most Common Causes of Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis causes vary depending on your age, genetics, and lifestyle. The condition can happen at any age, but older individuals are at higher risk.
Spondylolisthesis can develop due to a congenital disability, injury, or underlying condition.
Congenital Spondylolisthesis
Congenital spondylolisthesis occurs when a baby is born before its spine is wholly formed. This can cause vertebrae to slip out of place during birth, but the effects are often observed later in life.
In addition to the genetic factors, birth injuries can also squeeze the vertebrae out of position, causing this condition.
Slipped Discs
Degenerative spondylolisthesis is the most common, and it occurs due to old age and degenerative diseases affecting vertebrae. For instance, slipped discs are common because they lose water over time, making them more likely to fall out of place. So, instead of cushioning the vertebrae, which is their primary role, discs become the reason for spine degeneration.
Injuries
An injury, fall, car accident, or traumatic event can cause vertebrae to slip out of place. It usually happens during sports because you are more likely to overstretch and put excess pressure on your lower back. The most dangerous sports include weightlifting, football, and gymnastics.
Spondylolysis
Although they sound similar, spondylolysis refers to a small crack in the vertebra. This condition is common in young athletes, and it can lead to the development of spondylolisthesis.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis typically affects the elderly and causes their bones to become weaker and more prone to fractures. People with this condition often don’t notice minor fractures in their vertebrae, which can further develop and lead to spondylolisthesis.
Getting Spondylolisthesis Treatment in Spring, TX
If you experience back pain and other symptoms of spondylolisthesis, you should visit Spring Chiropractic & Rehab. We offer chiropractic and rehabilitative services to all people struggling with pain.
Dr. Scott Bolz and his team of experts have dedicated their lives to helping people get rid of pain to lead the life they deserve. Click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bolz, and say goodbye to chronic pain.