Our spinal column is made of several vertebrae and the spinal cord passes through it. Spondylolisthesis is a disorder in which one of these vertebrae slips over another one, often compressing the spinal cord or some nerve roots, leading to pain. Usually spondylolisthesis occurs after a fracture and is a common cause of lower back pain in adolescent athletes.
There are different types of spondylolisthesis, depending on what causes the disorder. These are:
Congenital spondylolisthesis: This type of spondylolisthesis is present at birth due to a birth defect of abnormal bone formation of the vertebrae.
Isthmic spondylolisthesis: This type of spondylolisthesis occurs because of small fractures in the bones of the vertebrae.
Degenerative spondylolisthesis: A common form of spondylolisthesis, this type occurs due to age-related degeneration of the discs between the vertebrae, with the discs losing their ability to resist movement by the vertebrae.
Traumatic spondylolisthesis: This is caused by a fracture in the spine due to a trauma or injury, such as a sports accident.
Spondylolisthesis due to a bone disease or infection: This occurs due to a disorder with the bones, such as osteoporosis, which weakens the spine.
Spondylolisthesis after spinal surgery: In some cases, spondylolisthesis may occur because of an incorrect surgical procedure.
