Spinal Diseases (Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis)

Spinal diseases are disorders that occur with the deterioration of bones and joints in the spine. Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis are often seen in the lumbar region. Spondylolysis occurs when part of the spine is broken or torn, which can lead to a herniated disc. Spondylolisthesis, on the other hand, occurs as a result of the slipping of one part of the spine to the other part. Both of these diseases can cause pain and limitation of movement. Treatment options include surgery, physical therapy, and pain medication.

In the article, detailed information about spinal diseases will be given under the following headings:

• What are spinal diseases and how do they occur?
• What are the symptoms of spinal diseases (spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis)?
• How to diagnose spinal diseases (spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis)?
• What is the treatment of spinal diseases (spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis)?

What are Spinal Diseases and How Do They Occur?

Diseases that occur as a result of damage to the bones and joints in the spine due to various factors are called spinal diseases. There are many factors that can cause spinal diseases, but the most common ones are as follows:

• Aging: The bones and joints of the spine weaken over time and may wear out more slightly. This increases the likelihood of spinal diseases.
• Overweight and obesity: Excess weight puts extra strain on the backbone and spinal joints, which can lead to spinal diseases.
• Sports injuries: Extreme physical activities that force the spine bones and joints can lead to spinal diseases.
• Genetic predisposition: The genetic makeup of some people may cause them to be more prone to spinal diseases.
• Congenital spinal abnormalities: Some people are born with congenital spinal abnormalities, which can lead to spinal disorders.

What are the Symptoms of Spine Diseases (Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis)?

Symptoms of spinal diseases can vary from person to person, but common symptoms for spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis are as follows:

• Low back pain: Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis can cause low back pain. The pain can range from mild to moderate, and the severity of the pain can vary depending on the degree of displacement of the bones. This pain is usually felt in the back of the lower back and legs.
• Limitation of movement: Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis may cause limitation of movement in the waistregion. It can make it difficult to do regular activities.
• Humpback: Humpback may occur as a result of the sliding of one part of the backbone to the other part. This can cause an uneven appearance in the lumbar region.
• Muscle weakness: There may be muscle weakness in the lumbar region. This occurs when one part of the backbone slides into the other part.
• Back pain: Severe back pain symptoms occur as a result of the slipping of the backbone.
• Skeletal deformation: Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis can cause deformation of the spinal bones, which can disrupt the body's natural posture.

How is the diagnosis of spinal diseases (spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis) diagnosed?

The diagnosis of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis is made using physical examination and other medical tests. The doctor evaluates the signs and symptoms by examining the person's lumbar region and spine. He then takes an image of the bones in the spine by X-raying the person. This examination can help reveal signs of spinal diseases such as spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis.

Another applied examination is MRI and computed tomography (CT). Detailed images of the tissues in the spine are obtained through these examinations. These examinations can help determine the location and severity of spinal diseases such as spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. Finally, EMG (electromyography) is an examination that measures the electrical activity of the muscles. It helps to evaluate the effect of spinal diseases such as spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis on muscles.

What is Spinal Diseases (Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis) Treatment?

Treatment of spinal diseases such as spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis may vary according to the severity of the disease and the general health of the person. Treatment options include:

Surgical Intervention

If spinal disease is severe and other treatment options are not effective, surgical intervention may be considered. This intervention is done to straighten the bones and joints in the spine.

Physiotheraphy

Physical therapy is a treatment to increase the flexibility and strength of the bones and joints in the spine. It can help reduce low back pain and relieve movement restriction.

Pain Relievers

Pain medications can be used to reduce the symptoms of spinal diseases such as spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. These drugs are usually given in tablet or suspension form and can relieve pain.

Spine Support Devices

Spine support devices can be used to reduce pain and deformation in the lumbar region. These devices consist of various designs that support the spine and ensure correct posture.