Spinal stenosis overview
When one vertebra slips forward
The bones of the spine, the ‘vertebrae’, are ‘stacked’ one on top of the other. When a vertebra slips forward relative to the vertebrae above and below, this is referred to as spondylolisthesis.
It tends to occur more frequently in the lumbar section of the spine, the lower back region, than elsewhere.
The degree of spondylolisthesis is measured using a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is a minor slippage, defined as less than 25% of the vertebra, and 5 is a major slippage, where the entire vertebra has slipped.
Spondylolisthesis is perhaps more common than you might think, with up to 6% of the population having the condition to some degree. Males are slightly more prone to spondylolisthesis than females.
Common causes of spondylolisthesis
What can cause vertebral slippage?
The primary cause of spondylolisthesis is some form of injury (trauma), often occurring in contact sports and very physically demanding sports. This can be either a single accident, or as a result of the creation of microfractures due to joint hyperextension, common in weightlifters and gymnasts.
Causes other than injury include:
- Age-related degeneration
- Arthritis
- Tumour
- Laminectomy
- Congenital bone defects (i.e. inherited)
It is rare for children to be diagnosed with condition, although it does happen. It is more common from the age of 13 and into adulthood.
Spondylolisthesis tests and diagnosis
How spondylolisthesis is identified
The main diagnostic technique used for spondylolisthesis is X-ray, which will immediately show any presence of the condition.
Other scans, such as CT and MRI scans may be recommended to determine if there is any further tissue damage.
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