What is spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is a condition that occurs when there is a slip of the vertebra where a vertebrae stress fracture (spondylolysis) has previously occurred. The stress fracture may weaken to a point where there is a shift of the vertebrae, usually forward, from its normal position.
It is possible if a large enough slip occurs that nerves may become pinched. Spondylolisthesis is graded from a mild slip (type 1) to a significant slip (type 5).
Who gets spondylolisthesis? A child who is active in sports such as diving, gymnastics, football and any sport that puts stress on the low back due to hyperextension may develop spondylolysis over time, which can lead to spondylolisthesis.
Learn more about sports and common orthopedic conditions.