Listhesis

Spondylolisthesis, often referred to as spinal listhesis, is a condition where one of the vertebrae in the spine slips forward or backward over the vertebra beneath it. This can occur due to a variety of causes, such as congenital factors, trauma, or degenerative changes in the spine. The slippage can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, leading to symptoms such as lower back pain, leg pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. In some cases, spondylolisthesis may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally through imaging studies. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the slippage and the symptoms experienced by the patient. They can range from conservative approaches like physical therapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications to surgical interventions such as spinal fusion to stabilize the affected vertebrae. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can help alleviate symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life.