Lumbar Spondylolisthesis

A spondylolisthesis occurs when the pars interarticularis, an area of bone that connects the joints on the back side of the vertebra, becomes fractured. The fracture can occur from an injury (usually occurring at a younger age without symptoms until later in life), or from degeneration (usually seen in patients over the age of 50). The fracture allows the top vertebral body to slip forward on the lower vertebral body causing potential low back pain, irritation and nerve root compression. There are different degrees of slippage, which can be seen via x-ray, and are graded in terms of amount of displacement of the top vertebral segment on the bottom.  Because of the increase in instability of this area, it is important to learn how to activate specific deep lumbar stabilizing muscles, and which motions to avoid to prevent exacerbation.  Our therapist use proven techniques to teach their patients how to activate these muscles, and spend the extra time educating the patients on spinal precautions to prevent future exacerbation.  

Associate Symptoms:

  • Low back pain
  • Pain with prolonged standing
  • Radiating pain into lower extremities
  • Radiating numbness/tingling into lower extremities

 

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