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When dealing with spinal issues, the terms can be confusing. The terms resemble but they actually describe different types of conditions that need unique care and treatment. Let’s learn more about the “Spondy” diagnosis. Each word starts with the prefix “spongy” which refers to the vertebral or spinal column.
If you are diagnosed with any of these conditions, something in your spine is not normal. It may be worrisome, as the spine is a very important part of the body. Don’t panic, various treatments are available nowadays for each one of them, which include medicines, exercise, rest, and in certain advanced cases surgery may be opted.
Let’s take a closer look at Spondylolisthesis v/s Spondylosis
Spondylosis can affect any region of the spine. Mainly it impacts the neck and lower back. It involves a defect in the pars interarticularis- a piece of bone attaching the facet joint at the back of the spine.
“This condition is a form of spinal degeneration occurring due to aging.”
Spondylosis can have different causes, two of the most common being spinal degeneration caused by arthritis of the spine and degenerative disc disease. The soft tissue supporting the spine discs, muscles tendons, etc. slowly begins to deteriorate as we grow older.
Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition where one of the vertebrae slips out. When one bone of the spine slips forward over the other. It causes damage to the spinal structure.
When spondylosis is left untreated, it may lead to spondylolisthesis. In some cases, a stress fracture may be the cause.
Some activities make the spine more prone to developing spondylolisthesis. For example, gymnasts, football players, and weightlifters of all ages can develop this condition.
Spondylolisthesis can be categorized according to the factors that cause it.
Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: This condition is caused by wear and tear in the spine as we age.
Traumatic: An injury to the spin that can occur either due to repetitive movements or sudden trauma pushes the vertebra out of its place.
Congenital: A birth defect in which the spinal column is formed incorrectly as the fetus develops.
Pathological Spondylolisthesis: It is caused by diseases such as tumors or other bone diseases that cause structural weakness of the bones.
Symptoms of spondylolisthesis vary. In the acute stage, no signs may be observed. However, people with chronic diseases may not be able to carry out daily activities. Some common symptoms are:
These symptoms are exacerbated by several activities such as standing, walking, and resting.
The choice of treatment depends on factors like the patient’s age, general health, the severity of symptoms, and the degree of spinal slip. Treatments can be opted from the following:
For both the above-discussed conditions diagnosis is the same. A spine surgeon will suggest having either of these for diagnoses like X-Ray, CT -Scans, or MRIs.
The majority of patients with Spondylosis or spondylolisthesis are free from pain and other symptoms after conservative care or surgical treatment. If you are having any of these symptoms discussed above or have been suffering from any of these conditions and you are looking for the best treatment option in Mumbai. Dr. Akhil Tawari is the best choice to guide you for any of your spine-related problems. Book an appointment today!