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Spondylolisthesis, a condition that can affect athletes in all sports that require a wide range of movement and flexibility, is a degeneration of the exterior portion of the vertabrae in the spine, reducing not only its integrity, but support, flexibility, and strength.

No matter how severe the condition, a patient may experience extreme discomfort, lack of mobility, or even the loss of sensation in an extremity, typically the leg. Adolescents suffering from this condition may often exhibit few symptoms or no symptoms at all.

Spondylolisthesis tends to cause great discomfort in patients and is usually brought on by physical accidents, such as falls or even automobile accidents. While it can occasionally be a pre-existing condition, but it is often worsened because of the accident.

In the highest levels of discomfort, it may be necessary to treat with what is known as spinal fusion, a treatment in which the lower vertebrae of the spine is fused to the affected vertebrae and held in place with titanium screws and rods or, at times, a plate. This surgery can take a maximum of four hours and can be extremely painful for the patient. While recovering, the pain can be terribly severe and requires mobility assistance and physical therapy.

While spinal fusion is painful and can take up to twelve months for recovery to take place, the success rate of this form of surgery is eighty percent, making spinal fusion the prime option of treatment for both patients and their doctors. When paired with special exercise, physical therapy, and changes in daily routine, spinal fusion can assist in alleviating Spondylolisthesis effectively.

This condition is curable and can be treated if detected early enough. Speaking to your physician and an orthopedic surgeon is key, as left untreated, Spondylolisthesis can lead to loss of sensation and bone degeneration. Your health is important and if you find yourself experiencing discomfort in the back, especially the lower back, after an accident or a fall, you should speak to an orthopedic surgeon immediately about testing and possible treatment.

Early detection can save both your health and your bones. Leaving it untreated is risky - a risk you should not be willing to take.