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Lumbar Spondylolisthesis & Treatment

Lumbar spondylolisthesis---a condition of the lower back---can be excruciating, according to SpineUniverse.com. The condition is treatable, with surgery or less-invasive methods.

  1. Condition

    • Lumbar spondylolisthesis is the slipping of one of the lower five vertebrae (L1 to L5). This misalignment of the spine can cause irritation in the surrounding tissue.

    Symptoms

    • Lumbar spondylolisthesis often causes aching in the buttock and lower back area, according to eOrthopod.com. Nerve compression caused by the slipping may result in tingling, numbness and muscle weakness.

    Causes

    • Degeneration of the vertebrae and facet joints is a common cause of spondylolisthesis in patients over 50, according to eOrthopod. The condition may also be caused by injury to the spine.

    Non-Surgical Treatment

    • Bed rest and the restriction of activities that put pressure on the affected area may help spondylolisthesis heal. Medication may be prescribed for muscle spasms, inflammation and pain.

    Surgery

    • A laminectomy can remove bone around the slipped vertebrae, alleviating tension on the nerves. The affected vertebrae can then be surgically fused into one bone to prevent further slippage.

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