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Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a condition that usually affects the L5 vertebra. The condition most commonly starts with a stress fracture or other defect in the spinal bone. This defect is called Spondylolysis. If the fracture is bad enough, the actual vertebrae might shift forward and out of alignment with the rest of the spine.

* Cause of Spondylolysis
* Spondylolysis Symptoms
* Diagnosis & Treatment of Vertebral Slippage
* Surgical Correction of Slipped Vertebrae
* What are Slipped Vertebrae?
* Slipped Vertebrae Pain
* Degenerative Vertebral Slippage
* Spondylolisthesis Therapy
* Isthmus Spondylolisthesis
Many people have this condition and do not even know about it. It is sometimes discovered by accident, when a person is undergoing an imaging study for a completely unrelated problem. The majority of people with this condition do not suffer any symptoms.
Degenerative Spondylolisthesis
Osteoporosis
can weaken the spinal bones and cause a fracture, leading to vertebral slippage. This is relatively common in older people, and can affect multiple spinal levels. It is also possible for the condition to start due to a degenerative process. As we age, the spinal bones can get weaker and less stable. This process is usually due to
osteoarthritis
in the spine. In this scenario, a vertebral bone (usually L4) slips forward and out of alignment with the rest of the spine. There is no fracture in this situation, just too much movement in the affected vertebra. This problem can lead to increased bone spur formation and
spinal stenosis.
This condition is really a combination of spondylolysis,
disc degeneration
and osteoarthritis.
Recommendation on Spondylolisthesis
Do not be alarmed by minor vertebral slippage. It might look scary, but it is not inherently dangerous or painful. If you are recently experiencing symptoms, give it time. The vertebral fracture itself might be the cause of your pain. This discomfort WILL go away by itself, with minimal preventative care. If you have chronic pain from this condition, consider your treatment options carefully. Conservative treatment is generally better for the condition and better for the general health of the patient.
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6/13/06 Revised 12/5/07

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