Spondylolisthesis is defined as a slippage of one spinal bone (vertebra) relative to an adjacent vertebra. Usually, one vertebra shifts forward relative to the vertebra immediately below it. Although there are many risk factors for spondylolisthesis in adults, degenerative disc disease is among the most common. It may also be caused by a malformation of a vertebra that is present since birth (congenital deformity), repetitive stress on the bone due to certain activities, or sudden injury (acute trauma) in adults or adolescents. Back pain may accompany this condition, and if the slip results in pressure on (compression of) the nerves, leg symptoms can also develop.
Anti-inflammatory and/or pain medications, bracing, limitation of activities such as sports, and/or physical therapy may be used to treat symptoms of spondylolisthesis. Occasionally, spinal epidural injections are utilized for pain relief. Surgery may be considered for patients whose symptoms do not improve, but usually only if they have associated neurological symptoms or deformity of the spine.