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Treatment Options for Spondylolisthesis
Quality of Life and Psychosocial Considerations for Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis can have a significant impact on function and quality of life due to pain and restrictions on activity. This can be frustrating especially for a young, active person. Since it is difficult for many young people not to be active and not to participate in some type of sports, it is important to choose a sport carefully as well as the degree of participation (e.g., if involved in gymnastics, hours of practice may be limited or alternate sports may be preferred, such as swimming or bicycling). Prepubertal children with any indication of spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis should not be lifting weights as this puts a significant strain on the spine.
The reported incidence of low back pain among children and adolescents is correlated with increased exposure time to sports and the increase in the variety of sports that affect the lumbar spine.
The general consensus is that if a child is found to have asymptomatic spondylolysis, there need not be any activity restriction. Athletes need to be educated regarding the risk of progression and the importance of continued exercise to promote stretching.
Some suggestions that may be helpful for minimizing the risk of further development of problems in children and adults include:
- Maintaining ideal weight
- Muscle strengthening exercises
- Education regarding daily living activities (e.g., how to bend properly)
Education regarding the condition and its treatment options is very important for providing the individual with a sense of control, as well as the information necessary to make informed decisions regarding treatments.
