When in its natural position, our spine is aligned in a way to provide maximum support and mobility to all parts of our body while protecting our spinal cord. The careful placement of the vertebrae and strength of the musculature that supports it ensures we can go about our daily lives with relative ease. When these muscles become compromised, our spine is put under unusual strain, or we experience trauma to the spine, it’s possible for these vertebrae to slip out of alignment. This slippage typically occurs at the base of the spine and can occur in patients of all ages. When left untreated, this spinal condition can become severe, impacting the quality of life of patients experiencing it and potentially impacting their mobility.
What Are The Root Causes of Spondylolisthesis?
Various conditions can result in a patient developing spondylolisthesis, including birth defects. Even those born with healthy spines can develop this condition as a result of stress or trauma to the back, especially when vertebrae become broken. Disease and infection can also impact the durability of our vertebrae, opening us to the risk of spondylolisthesis. Commonly, young patients who experience this condition do so as the result of injuries from gymnastics, football, or other athletic endeavors. The continuing development of their body also makes them susceptible.
How Will I Know If I’m Experiencing Spondylolisthesis?
When your vertebrae move out of position as the result of spondylolisthesis, you may develop symptoms associated with nerve impingement. Among these symptoms are pain located in the buttocks or that radiates from the lower back down the legs. Unusual stiffness or tightness in the muscles is often the result of this condition, as is generalized back pain. If you’re experiencing any symptoms listed above, it’s important that you schedule an appointment with Dr. Pranay Patel at one of our locations immediately. Left untreated spondylolisthesis can worsen and cause serious, lasting injury.
What Treatments Are Available For Spondylolisthesis?
If you’re visiting us at our Los Angeles, South Bay, or Long Beach locations, we offer a complete set of treatment options that have been shown to be effective for spondylolisthesis. The first and most common treatment is physical therapy to strengthen the muscles of the lower back and abdomen, which often shows a significant degree of success. In cases where this proves ineffective arthrodesis or surgical fusion of the vertebrae, it can provide results. During your appointment with Dr. Patel, you will receive a consultation on possible courses of treatment following your examination.
Those who experience spondylolisthesis often fear that they will live with their symptoms for the rest of their lives or lose some degree of their independence as a result of this condition. Modern spinal specialists at Ocean Spine are able to use a combination of time-tested treatments and innovative procedures to provide relief from spondylolisthesis. Many patients seeing us for this condition report an improved quality of life, reduction in overall symptoms, and significant relief from related pain. Reach out to our offices to begin treatment for your spondylolisthesis symptoms today.