Many Americans deal with back problems and pain daily. While many of these issues result from injuries that worsen over time, some back problems are degenerative and have dramatic effects. Spondylolisthesis is a condition that causes extreme pain and stiffness in the neck and back due to vertebral slippage, or the discs between the bones of the spine displacing. Spondylolisthesis is most common in the lower lumbar region of the spine and commonly results from heavy lifting, twisting, and bending at the torso.
Over time, degenerative spinal conditions like spondylolisthesis can have drastic effects on quality of life, mobility, and range of motion. Spondylolisthesis is common among athletes, particularly those with large upper bodies as the weight of their upper bodies rests on the lumbar region of the back. Some people also inherent spondylolisthesis from their parents, develop it after a traumatic injury, or experience it with age.
What are the Symptoms?
Spondylolisthesis varies in its severity and sometimes its symptoms. Typically, the further the intervertebral disc has slipped, the more extensive the effects will be. If the vertebral slippage causes pressure to build against the cluster of nerves forming the spinal cord, various problems can occur. It’s not uncommon for people with this condition to experience numbness, weakness, tingling, and pain in various parts of the body due to the pressure on the nerves of the back. The areas of the body affected depend on the location of the vertebral slippage. A slipped disc higher on the spine toward the neck will generally affect the upper body, while slippage in the lumbar region will affect the buttocks, legs, and feet.
Severity and Treatment
Without proper treatment, spondylolisthesis can lead to drastically diminished range of motion and quality of life. Some common treatments for spondylolisthesis include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling, and pain medication can help make spondylolisthesis manageable. However, it’s vital to speak to a doctor about the efficacy of medications for any spondylolisthesis case – over-the-counter medications may not be effective, and some prescription medicines carry their own degree of risk.
- Spinal injections can sometimes help patients manage their spondylolisthesis. Most patients can only receive a set number of injections per year, so it’s important to understand the timetable for this method of treatment.
- Light exercise and stretches can be beneficial to anyone struggling with spondylolisthesis. Low-impact exercise doesn’t place as much stress on the back and can be helpful for managing pain and restoring range of motion.
- Physical therapy. A professional physical therapist helps patients perform exercises specially tailored to their spondylolisthesis. Over time, physical therapy can help patients regain lost motor function and manage their pain without relying on several medications.
- Alternative remedies. Many people find relief from their spondylolisthesis symptoms through acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic adjustments, yoga, and other non-traditional remedies.
- For advanced spondylolisthesis cases, surgery may restore lost function and make the symptoms and pain of spondylolisthesis manageable. However, any type of spinal surgery can cause significant issues, so it’s important to discuss this option extensively with a doctor before seeking a surgical remedy.
Spondylolisthesis is a complex condition that varies from person to person. It’s crucial to understand the treatment options available should you or a loved one develop spondylolisthesis. Back pain and reduced mobility can have disastrous effects, so take the time to investigate your options and find a treatment plan that works for you.
How Kitay Law Can Help
Some spondylolisthesis cases happen from specific incidents or injuries, so speak to a spinal cord injury lawyer if you think your condition was the result of another person’s or party’s negligence. If this is the case, you can secure compensation for your medical expenses and any diminished quality of life you have suffered due to spondylolisthesis. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney and ask about your legal options.