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Spondylolisthesis

Conditions

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Spondylolisthesis (spon-dee-low-lis-thee-sis) is when the vertebra can start to shift out of place if a stress fracture weakens the bone so much that it is unable to maintain its proper position. Spondylolisthesis is one of the most common causes of lower back pain in adolescent athletes.

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Patients can be seen by Texas Children's experts in Orthopedics or Sports Medicine.

Causes & Risk Factors

Some children are born with a predisposition to develop spondylolisthesis. In other children, it is caused by overuse. Some sports, such as gymnastics, weight lifting, and football, put a great deal of stress on the bones in the lower back.

Spondylolisthesis can cause spasms that stiffen the back and tighten the hamstring muscles, resulting in changes to posture and gait.

  • Left: The pars interarticularis is found in the posterior portion of the vertebra.
  • Right: Spondylolisthesis occurs when the vertebra shifts forward due to instability from the pars defect.

(Courtesy of John Killian, MD, Birmingham, AL)

Symptoms & Types

  • In many people, spondylolisthesis are present, but without any obvious symptoms.
  • Pain usually spreads across the lower back and may feel like a muscle strain.

Diagnosis & Tests

X-rays of the lower back (lumbar), an MRI or a CT scan may be used for diagnosis.

Treatment & Care

Nonsurgical Treatment

  • Take a break from the activities until symptoms go away.  Activities can be resumed gradually and there will be few complications or recurrences.Some patients may need up to 6 months away from their primary sport in order to become pain free with activities, and in doing their rehabilitation exercises before they transition back into sports.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, may help reduce back pain.
  • Sometimes a back brace and physical therapy may be recommended. Stretching and strengthening exercises for the back and abdominal muscles can help prevent future recurrences of pain.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be needed if slippage progressively worsens and does not respond to non-surgical treatment. A spinal fusion may be recommended.