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What is a lLumbar vertebrae slide?
A Lumbar vertebrae slide is known in medical terminology as spondylolisthesis. This is a condition in which one vertebra in the lumbar region shifts forward or backward over another. It is a common condition diagnosed in 10% of people who suffer from lower back pain and seek medical attention.
What are the symptoms of a Lumbar vertebrae slidep?
Symptoms of Lumbar vertebrae slide can vary from person to person, and some people may not experience any symptoms. Lumbar spine disorders can be confused with other diseases because they cause similar symptoms. Symptoms of a lumbar vertebral slip are:
Common symptoms:
- Lower back pain: This is the most common symptom of low back pain and the pain can range from mild to severe. The pain often radiates to the hip.
- Pain and numbness in the legs: Compression of the nerve roots can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in the legs. These symptoms are usually more pronounced on one leg.
- Difficulty walking: Patients may have difficulty walking, especially when walking uphill or standing for long periods of time.
- Relief when sitting: Patients often report that pain decreases when sitting.
- Balance difficulties: Some patients may experience balance problems.
- Hunchback: In advanced cases, a hump may be visible in the waist area.
Less common symptoms:
- Difficulty controlling urine: In rare cases, lumbar slippage can affect bladder function and cause problems with urinary control.
- Difficulty controlling bowels: This can affect bowel function and cause problems such as constipation or difficulty passing stools.
- Sexual dysfunction: Erectile dysfunction in men and painful intercourse in women may occur.
How do you treat a lumbar vertebra slippage?
Treatment for a lumbar herniated vertebra varies depending on the severity and symptoms of the disc. The methods we generally use in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation are as follows: While conservative treatment is generally used for types 1-2, surgical methods are mostly preferred for type 3.
Conservative treatments:
- Rest: If the pain is severe, your doctor may recommend that you rest for a few days.
- Apply ice: Applying ice for 20 minutes several times a day can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers or stronger medications prescribed by your doctor can relieve the pain.
- Muscle relaxants: Muscle relaxants may be prescribed to relieve muscle spasms.
- Corset: Using a corset can help relieve pain and prevent slipping by supporting the spine.
- Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy includes exercises and stretching techniques to strengthen your muscles and increase your flexibility. This can help relieve pain and stabilize your spine.
Surgical treatment:
If conservative treatments don’t work or the herniated disc is severe, your doctor may recommend surgery. The purpose of surgery is to stabilize the spine and relieve nerve compression.
Surgical procedures can be performed in different ways:
- Decompression: Removal of bone or other tissue to release pinched nerves.
- Spinal fusion: Using bone grafts or implants to permanently connect the vertebrae together.
- Instrumentation: Placement of screws, rods, or other implants to stabilize the spine.
Rehabilitation after surgical intervention:
After surgery, you will need physical therapy to help heal and protect your spine. Our doctor will give you a special exercise program.
