Spondylolisthesis treatment may seem like a daunting endeavor for many patients, and the anticipation of undergoing it may even cause stress and anxiety. Many of those who have recently been diagnosed with spondylolisthesis find that learning more about their condition and the treatment options that are available to them can help to provide peace of mind. While not all cases of spondylolisthesis will be treated using the same techniques, most will involve at least some of the methods outlined in this article. Patients should be sure to consult a physician to receive a personalized treatment plan that will ensure optimal results.

What is Spondylolisthesis, Anyway?

To most clearly understand what exactly spondylolisthesis is and how it can affect spinal health, it may prove beneficial to gain some basic knowledge about the spinal anatomy. The major components of the spine include:

– Spinal nerves – Hundreds of spinal nerves are bundled together to form the spinal cord, which transmits sensory and motor signals from the brain to the rest of the body. Nerve roots branch from the spinal cord and eventually split into the individual nerves that travel throughout the body.

– Vertebrae – These bone structures surround and protect the spinal cord. Most individuals have 33 vertebrae, 24 of which are articulated with one another and are located in the neck and back, and nine of which are fused together to form the coccyx and sacrum.

– Facet joints – The facet joints connect adjacent, articulating vertebrae. These are synovial joints, meaning that a layer of synovial fluid is located in the cavity between the two bones that form each facet joint. This substance acts as a lubricant and reduces the friction that is created when the cartilaginous lining of the two bones rubs against one another every time an individual bends, twists, or otherwise moves the neck or back.

– Intervertebral discs – Essentially the body’s shock absorbers, intervertebral discs are small pads that are positioned between adjacent, articulating vertebrae. The discs have tough outer shells (called the annuli fibrosi) that provide them with the durability they require to support body weight and facilitate movement. Nuclei pulposi are housed within the annuli fibrosi and are responsible for ensuring that pressure is evenly distributed within the discs.

Simply stated, spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slides forward and over the vertebra located directly beneath it. The slippage of a vertebra is typically directly involved with the structural integrity of the spine’s other anatomical components. For instance, spondylolisthesis is usually caused by damage to the intervertebral discs or facet joints, which leads to improper support for the vertebrae. The condition can also cause compression of spinal nerves or the spinal cord itself, leading to radiculopathic pain and other symptoms.

What are the Different Grades of Spondylolisthesis?

When a spondylolisthesis diagnosis is formed, the physician will assign a grade that will indicate the degree to which the affected vertebra has slipped over the one located beneath it. A patient’s spondylolisthesis symptoms will largely vary depending on which grade of spondylolisthesis they are afflicted with:

– Grade 1 – 0 to 25 percent slippage. Many patients experience no symptoms and remain unaware that they are afflicted with spondylolisthesis.

– Grade 2 – 25 to 50 percent slippage. Some patients experience mild pain as well as muscle weakness, numbness, and tingling in the lower extremities. Those whose slipped vertebra is not causing neural compression may experience no symptoms.

– Grade 3 – 50 to 75 percent slippage. Those with Grade 3 spondylolisthesis may experience a slightly intensified version of the symptoms associated with Grade 2, as well as a stiffened back and tightened hamstrings.

– Grade 4 – 75 to 100 percent slippage. Significant pain and discomfort is typically experienced by those who suffer from Grade 4 spondylolisthesis, which is considered “severe.” Many patients also appear to “waddle” when walking and may have obvious changes in posture.

– Grade 5 – complete slippage; the affected vertebra has totally slipped off the one located directly beneath it. The most severe form of spondylolisthesis can cause debilitating pain that may interfere with the patient’s quality of life. It may also lead to visible deformities and neurologic abnormalities.

How is Low-Grade Spondylolisthesis Treated?

Spondylolisthesis treatment for Grades 1 through 3 typically involves the use of conservative, nonsurgical treatments. This is likely to include the use of over-the-counter medication, namely nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or analgesics such as acetaminophen. Some physicians may prescribe narcotic pain relievers or muscle relaxants, but these drugs are typically reserved for patients who are in severe pain.

Physical therapy is also commonly included in a low-grade spondylolisthesis treatment regimen. Working with a physical therapist to strengthen specific muscles and ligaments in the back and abdomen can provide the spinal column with additional support. In turn, this may relieve neural compression and take some of the strain off the vertebra that has slipped out of place. Physical therapy may also include other treatment methods, such as cryotherapy (cold therapy), thermotherapy (heat therapy), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and therapeutic ultrasound, among others.

Some individuals may be able to relieve their spondylolisthesis symptoms by making certain lifestyle modifications. Those who are obese, for instance, can greatly benefit from shedding excess pounds, which may be contributing to neural compression. Quitting smoking, consuming less alcohol, and becoming more active are other types of lifestyle modifications that can relieve spondylolisthesis treatment. Patients should be sure to consult a physician to learn if they would benefit from any of these changes. Some patients may also need clearance to begin a diet or exercise program while others may need a doctor’s supervision when reducing alcohol consumption.

While most of those who suffer from low-grade spondylolisthesis will find relief from conservative treatment methods, some may not. These patients may want to consider undergoing a minimally invasive spine procedure that focuses on decompressing the affected spinal nerve. Unlike open spine surgery, these procedures do not require the complete removal or fusion of any of the spine’s anatomical components. Most patients are able to recover within a matter of weeks and some even experience immediate relief. Those who are considering a minimally invasive procedure should consult their physician for more information and to find out if they are a candidate for this type of low-grade spondylolisthesis treatment.

How is High-Grade Spondylolisthesis Treated?

Many of those who are afflicted with high-grade spondylolisthesis will require surgical treatment. One such operation is called spinal fusion and it entails limiting mobility in the affected area of the spine. A large incision is made in the lower back, which typically dissects muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues. The affected vertebra is then slid back into place and a bone graft and various supporting hardware are used to fuse it to one of the surrounding vertebra. Many patients face a lengthy hospital stay and a demanding rehabilitation. Those who are affected by high-grade spondylolisthesis should consult a spine specialist, orthopedic surgeon, or other type of physician to learn about the various surgical treatments that are available to them.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for the treatment of spondylolisthesis and several other spinal conditions.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for several spinal conditions. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/spondylolisthesis/

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for the treatment of spondylolisthesis and several other spinal conditions.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Spondylolisthesis