Congenital Spondylolisthesis May or May Not Cause Symptoms

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Congenital Spondylolisthesis May or May Not Cause Symptoms

Spondylolisthesis is a condition characterized by the slipping of one vertebra onto the vertebra beneath it. Generally this is caused by a fracture or degeneration of spinal discs, but in some cases, people are born with it. When that occurs it’s called congenital spondylolisthesis. Like all types of spondylolisthesis, this form can exist without causing symptoms. However, if the displaced vertebra places pressure on a nerve, then it can create pain, numbness, tingling and other symptoms. When this occurs, your doctor will create a treatment plan with the goal of minimizing your symptoms.

This congenital spondylolisthesis treatment plan could include any of the following:

Over-the-counter pain killers and anti-inflammatory medications
Stretching and other exercises
Physical therapy
Avoidance of certain activities
Back braces
Surgery

If surgery is recommended, spinal fusion will probably be mentioned to you. This procedure is the common surgical solution for congenital spondylolisthesis and it uses bone grafts and metal screws to adjoin the slipped vertebra to the one next to it. It provides stability to the joint, but often results in reduced mobility. Additionally, because it is major, open-back surgery, spinal fusion requires hospitalization, use of general anesthesia, and a large incision. All of these factors increase the chance of risks and side effects like infection. If you decide that a spinal fusion isn’t for you, endoscopic surgery at Laser Spine Institute might be a good alternative. In some cases it can be used to reduce the symptoms of congenital spondylolisthesis, and it’s generally safer and more effective than traditional open-back surgery like spinal fusion.

If you’d like more information on finding relief from your congenital spondylolisthesis with LSI, contact us today. We’ll provide you with a free consultation.

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