Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis, a condition that can affect athletes in all
sports that require a wide range of movement and flexibility, is
a degeneration of the exterior portion of the vertabrae in the
spine, reducing not only its integrity, but support,
flexibility, and strength.
No matter how severe the condition, a patient may experience
extreme discomfort, lack of mobility, or even the loss of
sensation in an extremity, typically the leg. Adolescents
suffering from this condition may often exhibit few symptoms or
no symptoms at all.
Spondylolisthesis tends to cause great discomfort in patients
and is usually brought on by physical accidents, such as falls
or even automobile accidents. While it can occasionally be a
pre-existing condition, but it is often worsened because of the
accident.
In the highest levels of discomfort, it may be necessary to
treat with what is known as spinal fusion, a treatment in which
the lower vertebrae of the spine is fused to the affected
vertebrae and held in place with titanium screws and rods or, at
times, a plate. This surgery can take a maximum of four hours
and can be extremely painful for the patient. While recovering,
the pain can be terribly severe and requires mobility assistance
and physical therapy.
While spinal fusion is painful and can take up to twelve months
for recovery to take place, the success rate of this form of
surgery is eighty percent, making spinal fusion the prime option
of treatment for both patients and their doctors. When paired
with special exercise, physical therapy, and changes in daily
routine, spinal fusion can assist in alleviating
Spondylolisthesis effectively.
This condition is curable and can be treated if detected early
enough. Speaking to your physician and an orthopedic surgeon is
key, as left untreated, Spondylolisthesis can lead to loss of
sensation and bone degeneration. Your health is important and if
you find yourself experiencing discomfort in the back,
especially the lower back, after an accident or a fall, you
should speak to an orthopedic surgeon immediately about testing
and possible treatment.
Early detection can save both your health and your bones.
Leaving it untreated is risky - a risk you should not be willing
to take.