Spondylolisthesis involves the slipping of the vertebra at the spine’s base, causing severe back pain. This can be due to aging, sports-related injuries, vehicle accidents, or even a slip-and-fall incident. Most people will experience some form of back pain in their life. For many, relief may be in the form of anti-inflammatory pain medications, surgery or physical therapy. Learn about spondylolisthesis, its causes, treatments, more from Biomotion Physical Therapy.
Here, we’ll focus on the causes and symptoms of Spondylolisthesis why physical therapy is an effective option of treatment.
Spondylosis vs Spondylolisthesis
It’s easy to mistake spondylolisthesis for spondylosis as they are both related in terms of what causes them. That’s why it’s important to initially distinguish the two for proper diagnosing. Spondylolysis involves a fracture in the pars interarticularis of the vertebra., which connects the upper and lower facet joints.
Spondylolisthesis involves the fractured pars interarticularis separating, which can cause the affected vertebra to move on the other vertebra below. Both conditions often occur in young people who engage in strenuous sports activities.
The above facts demonstrate that back pain can greatly impact a person’s overall quality of life. A simple act of bending over to pick up something or walking can be severely affected by spondylolisthesis.
Spondylolisthesis falls into a spectrum of types of back pain. It’s crucial that sufferers receive a medical diagnosis. This will help educate you to find the best course of treatment.
The Roots of Spondylolisthesis
The term “Spondylolisthesis” has Greek origins from roots, spondylos (vertebrae) and olisthesis (slip or slide down).” Belgian obstetrician, Dr. Herbinaux, cited the issue first in 1782. referred to this condition in 1782 after observing female pregnant patients having difficulty during delivery. Understanding the anatomy of how this condition leads to pain in the lower back is crucial for preventative medicine.
Deconstructing the Anatomy of Spondylolisthesis
Most of us learned in anatomy class that the human spine is composed of five sections. These sections are the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum and coccyx. These sections consist of thirty-three vertebrae or bones.
Anatomically, Spondylolisthesis occurs when one of the bones or vertebrae of the spine slips forward and is out of place. The next sections will address the causes, symptoms, and physical therapy as an option for treating Spondylolisthesis.
Causes of Spondylolisthesis
Some potential causes of spondylolisthesis include:
• Family and genetic history of back pain
• Accelerated wear on bone cartilage, similar to arthritis
• A personal history of trauma or excessive stress on the lower back or lumbar spine
Pars Interarticularis Fracture
Your pars interarticularis is the weakest part of the vertebra, which makes it the most vulnerable to fracturing. It’s a very thin bone that joins the two vertebrae together in the back of the spine. Symptoms of a pars interarticularis fracture can be alleviated with medical help as long as it’s treated within the early stages. If it’s not treated, conditions may worsen and cause other issues. When this bone collapses, the connecting vertebrae are in danger of shifting against each other. This causes severe back pain for the individual.
Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis
People who may have Spondylolisthesis may exhibit some of the following symptoms:
• Lower back pain
• Pain the buttocks region
• Pain occurring in the leg or thigh region
• Bowel and bladder control difficulty
• Tight, constrictive muscles in the hamstring
• Difficulty walking
• Protruding abdomen
What Happens if Spondylolisthesis is Left Untreated
If Spondylolisthesis is left untreated, the vertebra will continue to weaken and won’t able to support your spine. Severe chronic pain will be a common occurrence and the risk of permanent damage will rise until treated. In the long-term, this condition can cause further complications if left untreated. Exercise caution before seeking self-help remedies to handle the issue.
Spondylolisthesis & Physical Therapy Treatment
Physical Therapy is an effective treatment option for spondylolisthesis. With proven, noninvasive techniques, physical therapy may help significantly reduce pain and symptoms of spondylolisthesis. At Biomotion Physical Therapy, we understand how back pain can significantly affect your life. Our physical therapists have the extensive experience and expertise you need to start getting your life back on track.
Contact Us Today!
Our physical therapy clinic is located in Scherz, Texas and provides free screenings to help get to the bottom of your issue. With no referral required, you can begin your path towards recovery when you contact us today. We specialize in evidence-based and non-invasive treatments for back pain, foot pain, shoulder pain, and ankle pain. If you’ve been medically diagnosed for Spondylolisthesis, contact us online by filling out our form or call us today to begin the treatment you need!
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