Spine Spondylolisthesis Treatment in Lucknow
A patient is afflicted with Spondylolisthesis when his or her vertebral bone slips forward in relation to another vertebra. “Listhesis” means to slip
forward.
It occurs when a weakened part of a vertebra called pars interarticularis separates, which makes the vertebra move out of position. The
result is pinched nerves, which causes pain, Spondylolisthesis generally occurs between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae or the last lumbar
vertebra and the sacrum. This location is where the spine curves into its ‘S’ shape, where the stress is most pronounced.
Symptoms:
Mild cases of spondylolisthesis usually cause little pain and the person concerned is not even aware of it. The condition is often
discovered when a person has an X-ray of the back taken for another reason.
However, in other cases the patient may experience low back pain, muscle spasms and stiffness. He or she may also have sciatica,
pain which radiates down one or both legs. The pain may worsen as the person stands or walks. There may also be numbness, though it is uncommon.
The faster the vertebra slips the more pain it generates. Less painful symptoms can be tightness in the hamstrings. The patient may not
be able to touch his or her toes, but there may be no nerve pain.
Diagnosis:
When pain persists, a doctor should be immediately consulted. The physician checks the patient’s complete medical history, including
prior injuries. Your lifestyle habits will also be discussed to determine where it is causing the pain. A physical examination follows, which
includes tests for numbness or muscle weakness. Imaging tests like the following allow the doctor to locate the precise source of pain:
- X-Rays
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT)
Treatments:
Non-surgical treatments include self-care, braces, physical therapy, medications, steroid injections and holistic therapy.