Medical expert of the article
New publications
Spondylolisthesis in children
Last reviewed: 12.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
The diagnosis of spondylolisthesis (Latin: spondylolisthesis; from the Greek spondylos - vertebra, listhesis - slipping) means the forward displacement of the vertebra (in ICD-10 code M43.1).
Most often, the body of the 5th lumbar vertebra (L5) is displaced in relation to the 1st sacral (S1) and the 4th lumbar (L4) in relation to the 5th lumbar (L5).
Displacement of the vertebral body to the side is called laterolisthesis, and to the back is called retrolisthesis.
The prevalence of this pathology varies from 2 to 15%. In children and adolescents, grade I spondylolisthesis occurs in 79% of cases, grade II in 20% and grade III in 1% of patients.
[ Causes of Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a multifactorial disease, in the etiology and pathogenesis of which genetic and dysplastic components play a role.
The development and progression of spondylolisthesis is determined by the following factors:
- sagittal spinopelvic imbalance;
- dysplasia of the lumbosacral spine (spina bifida, hypoplasia of the articular processes, hypoplasia of the transverse processes, hypoplasia of the vertebral arches), high position of the L5 vertebra relative to the bispinal line;
- trapezoidal deformation of the body of the displaced vertebra and dome-shaped deformation of the upper surface of the body of the underlying vertebra;
- instability of the lumbosacral segment;
- the appearance and progression of degenerative changes in the intervertebral disc at the level of displacement.
Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis
With spondylolisthesis, patients complain of pain in the lumbosacral spine, often radiating to one of the lower extremities. There is a violation of posture or scoliotic deformation of the lumbar spine, weakness and hypotrophy in the lower extremities.
Upon examination, a shortening of the torso is revealed. It seems that the torso is "pushed" into the pelvis. G.I. Turner called such a torso "telescopic". The sacrum is vertical and stands out in relief under the skin. The lumbar lordosis is increased and has an arched shape due to the forward displacement of the spine. Due to the shortening of the torso, folds are formed above the iliac crests and the distance between the wings of the iliac bones and the lower ribs decreases.
Where does it hurt?
Diagnosis of spondylolisthesis
The diagnosis of spondylolisthesis in children is based on a combination of anamnestic, clinical data, and the results of radiological and physiological research methods.
The anamnesis shows chronic trauma to the lumbosacral spine. The development of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis is facilitated by weightlifting, gymnastics, dancing, ballet, and swimming.
What do need to examine?
How to examine?
Treatment of spondylolisthesis
Conservative treatment is indicated for patients with grades I-II spondylolisthesis in the absence of neurological deficit. Axial loads on the spine are excluded. NSAIDs (naproxen, diclofenac, ibuprofen), B vitamins, physiotherapy, exercise therapy aimed at strengthening the long muscles of the back and the anterior abdominal wall are prescribed. When performing any physical work, wearing a semi-rigid corset is recommended. Indications for surgical treatment of spondylolisthesis:
- neurological disorders of compression genesis against the background of spinal canal stenosis or chronic trauma to the root:
- lumbago due to instability of the spinal motor segment;
- spondyloptosis;
- progressive displacement of the vertebra;
- ineffectiveness of conservative treatment for 6 months.
Использованная литература