User:Mr. Ibrahem/Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is the displacement of one spinal vertebra compared to another. Symptoms main include back pain or sciatica; though some have no symptoms. Symptoms may be worsened with movement of the back. Trouble walking and leg weakness may occur. Complications may rarely include loss of bowel or bladder control.

Causes include degenerative, isthmic, traumatic, dysplastic, or pathologic. Isthmic disease refers to break down of the pars interarticularis which may repeated minor trauma such as with wrestling or gymnastics. Dysplastic disease refers to abnormal facet joint alignment, which may be either present at birth or acquired later in life. Pathologic disease refers to connective tissue disorders, cancer, or following surgery. Diagnosis is typically by X ray. Most commonly the lower lumbar spine is affected; though the cervical spine may also be involved.

Initial treatment may include pain medication, physiotherapy, and steroid injections into the area. Other measures may include weight loss. If this is not sufficiently effective certain people may benefit from surgery; however, which type of surgery is benefit is unclear.

Spondylolisthesis affects about 12% of people in the United States. Degenerative disease occurs more commonly in women than men. Spondylolisthesis was first described in 1782 by Belgian obstetrician Herbinaux.