This disorder was first described by Dr. Herbinaux in 1782, but the term was formally coined much later in 1854. In this medical condition, a vertebra in the spine slips either forward or backward. The forward slippage is known by the medical term anterolisthesis, whereas the backward slippage is commonly known as retrolisthesis.

This defect can ultimately lead to the deformation of spine and possibilities of the spinal canal narrowing are quite prevalent. There are not many preventive measures, but this disorder is more frequently observed among sports persons who face repeated hyperextension as in ballet, gymnastics and American football.

Different types of Spondylolisthesis

The lumbar spondylolisthesis is of five types namely Dysplastic spondylolisthesis, Isthmic spondylolisthesis, Degenerative spondylolisthesis, Traumatic spondylolisthesis and Pathologic spondylolisthesis.

The dysplastic spondylolisthesis is a congenital disorder and arises because of issues in the formation of the facet vertebra. In Isthmic spondylolisthesis, the vertebra called paris interarticularis becomes defective primarily due to excessive trauma. This is the most common condition and is found in sport persons whose activities involving excessive hyperextension.

Degenerative spondylolisthesis is usually found in older patients and occurs primarily due to cartilage degeneration. Traumatic spondylolisthesis occurs because of trauma and injuries such as a fracture in pedicle, lamina, or facet joints. In this disorder, the vertebra slips forward.

The Pathologic spondylolisthesis is due to a defective bone possibly arising from tumor.

Diagnosis and Treatments for Spondylolisthesis

The diagnosis usually involves radiographs, as a visual inspection may not be able to trace the exact reason of the pain. X-rays are usually sufficient to determine if there has been a slip between two vertebrae.

Depending on the extent of the slippage, the condition is classified into five grades. Any slip up to 25% is categorized as Grade I, while any slippage between 26 to 50% is ranked as Grade II. The Grade III classification includes slippages between 51 and 75%, while any slippage above 75% is classified as Grace IV.

Grade V is a more complex condition wherein the vertebra has been totally displaced and probably fallen over the subsequent vertebra.

For treatment, epidural steroid (cortisone) injections are suggested for patients complaining of severe pain, tingling, or even numbness. Isthmic spondylolisthesis patients are advised to get a hyperextension brace as it aids in healing the defect by bringing the bones together. Advanced treatments involve expensive surgeries; lumbar fusion has been found to be particularly effective for back pain.