Spondylolysis is broad term involving degenerative changes to the vertebra. This can include, thinning of the disc, bone spurs and osteoarthritis.
Spondylolisthesis is slipping of vertebrae over another.
The Greek terminology, “spondylo” means vertebrae and “lysis” is a loosening or release. Spondylolysis is a weakening of the vertebral arch in the lower lumbar vertebra. Spondylolisthesis is a forward displacement of one vertebra on top of the other and in some cases is a progression from spondylolysis. Commonly, it mostly occurs with L5 slipping anteriorly forward on the sacrum but may be found with L4 slipping over L5 vertebra.
Moderate spondylolisthesis is 50% of the vertebra has slipped forward and is the mostly common condition. This will present with chronic daily pain. Severe spondylolisthesis is over 75 % of the vertebra has slipped forward with the possibility of complete dislocation.
What Causes Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis?
- The most common cause of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis is pelvic imbalances. Pelvic imbalances changes stress patterns in the spine during normal activities like walking.
- A defect in the vertebra which allows the vertebra to slip.
- Arthritic changes to the vertebra.
- Family history.
- Sports involving hyperextension of the back – gymnastics, weight lifting, football.
Symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Pain:
- Lower back pain that feels dull, aching. Can be felt only on one side, but in some cases may be felt on both sides.
- Pain that spreads to the hips, buttocks, and/or groin.
- Sciatic-like pain in the buttocks and/or backs of the thighs. Rarely extends below the knee.
- Stiffness and reduced range-of-motion in the lower back, hips, pelvis, and groin.
- Possible difficulty with movements such as walking upstairs or bending at the waist.
- A feeling of instability, buckling or giving away in the pelvis and/or lower back when standing, walking, or moving from standing to sitting.
- Pain can be described as a sensation that their hip feels as if it in not connected properly – a disjointed feeling.
I approach treating your back condition to your presentation, which involves:
- Analyzing your posture – is the spine and hips aligned?
- Discussing potential lifestyle dynamics impacting the joint.
- Understanding how other factors such as arthritis can aggravate the problem.
- Muscle testing the muscles comprising the hip for weakness and pain.
- Targeting effected muscles, releasing motor points, trigger points and relaxing the fascia
Providing exercises to continue treatment success between acupuncture treatments.
Call (914) 572-5137 today or click here to schedule an appointment & learn more about how we can help you.