Spondylolisthesis

Definition:

Forward slippage of a lumbar vertebra on the vertebra below it.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The spine is commonly spoken of by anatomical sections: cervical (neck), thoracic (rib cage), lumbar (from bottom of the thoracic spine to the top of pelvis), sacral (pelvis) and coccygeal (tail). Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which a vertebra slips forward on the vertebra below it. It normally occurs in the lumbar vertebra, most often at the level between the fifth lumbar vertebra and the first sacral vertebra. Spondylolisthesis may occur as the result of a congenital defect in the fifth lumbar vertebra, stress fractures, and traumatic fractures. Spondylolisthesis may occasionally be associated with bone diseases.

Spondylolisthesis may vary from mild to severe. It is associated with and can produce increased lordosis (abnormal anterior convexity of the spine). Symptoms may include lower back pain and pain in the thighs and buttocks, stiffness, muscle tightness, and tenderness in the slipped area. Neurologic damage may result from pressure on nerve roots and may cause sciatic (pertaining to the hip or ischium) pain.