Spondylolisthesis

Question 1

definition

Answer 1

slippage of one vertebrae over another and usually occurs at L4/L5 or L5/S1 level

Question 2

causes

Answer 2

can be due to a developmental defect or recurrent stress fracture of the posterior element which fails to heal

Question 3

usually occurs

Answer 3

in adolescents due to increased weight or increased sporting activity

Question 4

presentation

Answer 4

• lower back pain and may have a radiculopathy in severe cases of slippage
• may have a paradoxically flat back due to muscle spasm and can present acutely with a waddling gate

Question 5

management

Answer 5

mild can be observed while severe needs surgical stabilisation

Question 6

radiculopathy defintion

Answer 6

irritation or injury to a nerve root that causes pain, numbness or weakness in the area of the body that the nerve supplies