Spondylolisis and Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisis (or occasionally spelt as Spondylolysis) is a defect of the spinal vertebrae at the area where two vertebrae meet, usually a stress fracture. It most commonly occurs in the lumbar spine area, in particular, the 5th lumbar vertebrae (and some less often the 4th vertebrae).

Spondylolisthesis is a severe form of spondylolysis, where the stressed portion of the vertebrae separates; causing the vertebrae to ‘slip’ forward

Lower back pain which worsened with activity, especially overarching (hyperextension) of the spine.

Spondylolisis most often develops in young teenagers who are active in sports. Often, they may not exhibit signs of pains or is mild and easily overlooked. An X-ray is usually taken to confirm this diagnosis.

This spondylolisis article expands on this condition further

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