spondylolisthesis

Here is my short report on spondylolisthesis which i made all the physical therapists where i work pronounce for me ( forwards and backwards)

Isthmic spondylolisthesis is a spine condition in which one vertebra of the spine slips forward and in front (anteriorly) of the vertebrae below it. This is caused when a fracture occurs in a bone that connects the two joints. The bone is called the pars interarticularis. A fracture can occur without the bone slipping. This is called spondylolisis and may remain such or may be a precursor to spondylolisthesis.  Spondylolisthesis most often occurs at L5-S1 at L4-L5 and, in very rare cases, higher up.  Spondylolisthesis fractures often occur in childhood but often symptoms don’t arise until adulthood if ever. 

Spondylolisthesis affects people in different ways. People with mild cases of it may not experience any symptoms. Symptoms of more severe cases include, low back pain, stiffness in the back and legs, a leaning forward posture-typically a compensation for the stiffness and pain.  A person might also feel tingling, numbness or a slipping sensation.  Sometimes a person with spondylolisthesis will have a decreased pelvic curve, which might cause a change in pelvic rotation and subsequently a change in gait.

Western medical treatment for spondylolisthesis depends on the severity of vertebral slippage and amount of pain.  Treatment is done to stabilize the fractured area and to alleviate symptoms. Often spondylolisthesis can be treated successfully with nonsurgical means. Treatment might include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, wearing a back brace and epidural steroid injections.  If problems persists a doctor will often suggest/consider spinal surgery (fusion).

Yoga can be very helpful in treating spondylolisthesis.  Yoga that is most helpful includes strengthening back and abdominal muscles, working on good spinal alignment and opening/releasing the hamstrings. Pranayama is also great as it encourages a deep awareness of oneself (among other things), which is beneficial when dealing with injury as well as with life.