Point Sports Therapy Clinic
digital
INJURY DATA
SPONDYLOLISTHESIS
Spondylolisthesis is when the vertebrae (small bones in your spine) slip forward and out of alignment. This is most commonly found in the lower back and leads to pain and instability.
Average recovery time -
3 to 4 weeks
Likelihood of reoccurrence -
Medium
Digital illustration of spondylolisthesis generated by EVE.
Spondylolisthesis is a condition of the spine where one of the vertebrae slips out of place. Spondylos, means "spine" or "vertebra," and listhesis, means "slipping, sliding or movement."
It can occur anywhere in your spine but is most commonly found in the lower back. In some cases individuals may have no symptoms , in other cases it can squeeze or compress the nerves in your spinal canal, which, in turn, may lead to pain radiating into your legs.
Spondylolisthesis can be caused by spondylolysis, which is a stress fracture or crack in the vertebrae. When spondylolysis is the cause of this condition it is called isthmic spondylolisthesis. The stress fracture in the bone can cause it to slip forwards due to its weakened structure. Spondylolysis is more common in young athletes, mainly gymnasts.
Spondylolisthesis can also be caused by degeneration of the discs between the vertebrae in your spine. They can wear down and the back part of the vertebrae, known as the facet joint, can regrow which leads to the vertebrae slipping forwards due to the uneven new growth. This is the most common type of spondylolisthesis.
Individuals can also be predisposed to the condition, this occurs when their spine does not form properly in the womb, making them more likely to develop the condition later in life. This is called congenital spondylolisthesis.
Spondylolisthesis can also be caused by trauma and sports where hyperextending the spine repeatedly leads to the bone slipping forwards. This is commonly seen in gymnastics and football and young athletes who are going through a growth spurt.
It is important to note that spondylolisthesis is not the same as a slipped disc as that is when the tissue between the bones in your spine pushes out.
Signs & SYMPTOMs
Lower back pain
Tenderness in the lower back
Pain while standing or walking that is eased by sitting or bending forwards
Referred pain into the glutes and/or thighs
Tight hamstrings
Sciatica - referred pain from the lower back, numbness and tingling in the buttocks that may extend down the back of the leg into the foot
Stiffness
Spondylolisthesis does not always cause symptoms
If you believe you have symptoms of spondylolisthesis please seek guidance from a medical professional! - EVE
Additional illustrations.
Above shows an expected VAS (pain) score for this injury as calculated by EVE.
sports
This injury is commonly seen in sports such as...
- Football
- Weightlifting
- Gymnastics
- Tennis
- Cricket
- Rugby
- Diving
- Bodybuilding
- Athletics
treatment & prevention
Follow these steps to treat this injury....
Extra Information
Enquire with your GP about a steroid injection, anti-inflammatories and decompression surgery or spinal fusion surgery.
Get in touch with a sports therapist to assist with your injury rehabilitation journey.
Stay tuned for our upcoming therapist database!
Reach the starting point of your recovery by purchasing the complete injury rehabilitation package at the Self-Help Shop!
Follow these steps to prevent this injury....
DOs
Use proper technique while engaging in sports - consider having someone observe you to remind you
Try to achieve and sustain a healthy body weight as excess weight puts added pressure on the lower back
Eat a well-balanced diet to keep your bones well-nourished and strong
Add strength training to your workout, specifically targeting your lower back, legs and core
Allow adequate rest between sessions and incorporate regular breaks in activities that put significant strain in the area
Switch to low impact exercises such as yoga, walking, biking or swimming during the healing process
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
DON'Ts
Avoid aggravating activities e.g. bending, twisting and lifting
Avoid adding excess stress to back
Do not take anti-inflammatories for the first 48 hours to avoid disrupting the healing process
Avoid slouching when sitting or standing
Steer clear of heavy lifting where possible, or ask for assistance
Refrain from doing high impact activities for prolonged periods
Restrict your sporting activities until fully healed
Do not ignore your pain/symptoms! Address them promptly for a better recovery
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.