Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one of the vertebrae (bones) in the spine slips out of the proper position relative to the vertebra next to it. The word spondylolisthesis is derived from the Greek words spondylo, meaning spine, and listhesis, meaning to slip. Spondylolisthesis can occur in both children and adults, for different reasons. The condition varies in severity from patient to patient, and the severity will determine the course of treatment, as not all cases are symptomatic..
With spondylolisthesis, there is malalignment of the vertebra. It is not the same as a herniated disc, although the two can coexist. (Read more about herniated discs.) With spondylolisthesis, the slippage is of the bony vertebra. With a herniated or ruptured disk, it’s the soft interior of the disc between the bones that “slips” or bulges through a tear in the outer layer of the disc.
What Causes Spondylolisthesis?
When spondylolisthesis occurs in children or teens, it is usuallypresent from birth or from a traumatic injury. (In fact, spondylolisthesis is the most common cause of back pain in teens.) In adults, the most common cause of spondylolisthesis is natural wear and tear due to aging and arthritis.
The various types of spondylolisthesis include:
Congenital spondylolisthesis occurs when a defect from birth causes the bones of the spine to grow abnormally over time. When this happens, the misaligned spine puts pressure on the disc, resulting in slippage. This type of spondylolisthesis occurs primarily in children and teens, especially during a growth spurt.
Isthmic spondylolisthesis occurs when a condition called spondylosis puts pressure on the spine, causing the vertebrae to slip. The condition can be triggered by certain sports that put a great deal of stress on the back, such as football, gymnastics, and weight lifting.
Degenerative spondylolisthesis occurs when the natural wear and tear due to aging and arthritis causes a vertebra to slip out of place. This form of spondylolisthesis usually occurs in people over 40.
Traumatic spondylolisthesis occurs when an acute, traumatic injury such as a car accident leads to spondylolisthesis.
Pathological spondylolisthesis occurs when a disease of the spine, such as tumors or infection, weaken the vertebrae, resulting in increased pressure and slippage of the vertebra.
Spondylolisthesis should be treated at a major medical center with advanced facilities and experts experienced in treating complex spine disorders (see Doctors Who Treat Spondylolisthesis).
Reviewed by: Paul Park, MD
Last reviewed/last updated: April 2024
Illustration by Thom Graves CMI
