Best Doctors for Spondylolisthesis in Lucknow

Types/Stages of Spondylolisthesis

Doctors who treat spondylolisthesis classify this condition into the following types based on its origin:

• Congenital Spondylolisthesis: This condition originates from an abnormal spine development before birth, making the vertebrae more susceptible to displacement later in life due to this pre-existing anomaly.

• Isthmic Spondylolisthesis: This type of spondylolisthesis is common in young adults and athletes, resulting from a weakened bone due to a crack or fracture, leading to forward slippage of vertebrae.

• Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: With age, the intervertebral discs lose water and thickness, increasing the likelihood of vertebrae shifting from their normal alignment, particularly in the lumbar region.

Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis

The severity of vertebrae slippage is graded from Grade 1 ( least severe) to Grade 5 (most severe). The manifestations of spondylolisthesis can vary based on the severity of the condition and may include the following:

• Lower back pain

• Muscle tightness and stiffness in the leg muscles

• Weakness in the legs

• Numbness or tingling sensation in thighs and buttocks

• Difficulty in walking or running due to stiffness and tenderness in the back

• In severe cases, loss of control over bowel and bladder functions

Tests to Diagnose Spondylolisthesis

Doctors specialising in spondylolisthesis at Apollo Hospitals use a range of diagnostic tools to identify this condition accurately:

• Physical Examination: The doctor evaluates spine mobility and examines for muscle weakness or numbness.

• X-rays: These images reveal vertebra misalignment.

• MRI Scan: This test helps visualise nerve compression due to vertebra slippage and soft tissue abnormalities.

• CT Scan: This provides detailed images of the spine, and helps assess bone abnormalities and the severity of the condition.

• Bone Scan: This helps identify areas of increased bone activity, indicating stress fractures or other abnormalities not visible on X-rays.

• Discography: This involves the injection of contrast dye into the spinal discs to identify any abnormalities or degeneration contributing to spondylolisthesis.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Spondylolisthesis at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow

At Apollo Hospitals in Lucknow, doctors specialising in spondylolisthesis treatment tailor treatment options based on the severity of the condition. Whether it involves surgical intervention or non-surgical management, the team of specialists in spondylolisthesis ensures patients receive optimal care.. The treatment options include:

• Non-surgical Treatment: Includes physical therapy aimed at improving strength and flexibility, use of a back brace for support and prescribed medications to alleviate discomfort.

• Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections are administered to manage pain and facilitate the realignment of vertebrae.

• Surgical Treatment: When non-surgical methods are ineffective or in severe cases, spinal fusion surgery may be recommended. This procedure aims to stabilize the spine and alleviate chronic pain or nerve damage.