Best Spondylolisthesis Doctors in Visakhapatnam

Spondylolisthesis is a spinal disorder where a vertebra slips forward over the one beneath it. The condition typically results in symptoms such as lower back pain, leg pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking. Its origin can be traced to various factors, including degenerative changes, congenital defects, joint injuries, overuse, and trauma. There are multiple types of spondylolisthesis, like degenerative and isthmic, each attributed to unique underlying causes. The severity is categorised into grades based on the extent of the vertebra slippage.

In Vizag, an increasing number of residents are seeking treatment for spondylolisthesis. Apollo Hospitals in Vizag offers some of the best doctors specialising in spondylolisthesis treatment who are skilled and experienced in handling diverse cases of this spinal disorder.

Types/stages of Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is generally categorised into:

• Degenerative spondylolisthesis: This is the most common type, caused by age-related wear and tear on discs and facet joints, leading to instability and slippage.

• Isthmic spondylolisthesis: This type results from a stress fracture or defect in the pars interarticularis, allowing one vertebra to slip forward over another.

• Congenital spondylolisthesis: This type is present at birth due to abnormal vertebral development, predisposing the spine to slippage.

• Traumatic spondylolisthesis: This variant occurs due to an acute spinal injury or trauma, such as a fracture, leading to vertebral displacement.

• Pathological spondylolisthesis: This type of slippage is caused by bone diseases, tumours, or other pathological processes weakening the vertebrae's structural integrity.

  Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis:

The symptoms associated with spondylolisthesis are often similar in both men and women and include:

• Lower back pain

• Stiffness in the back and legs

• Leg pain, especially when walking

• Tightness in the hamstring muscles

• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

Tests to Diagnose Spondylolisthesis

Some common tests used by doctors specialising in spondylolisthesis treatment include:

• Physical examination: This involves assessing signs of nerve damage, muscle weakness, or tension, and evaluating the range of motion and pain response.

• X-rays: This is used to examine the alignment of the vertebrae and detect any slippage.

• CT scans: This provides detailed cross-sectional images of the spine, helping to identify fractures, defects, or other abnormalities.

• MRI scans: MRI scans offer detailed images of the spinal cord and nerve roots, allowing for the assessment of any nerve compression or damage.

• Bone scans: These can detect areas of increased bone activity, indicating bone breakdown or formation, which can help identify stress fractures or other bone abnormalities.

  Treatment or Surgery Options for Spondylolisthesis at Apollo Hospitals in Vizag

For managing spondylolisthesis, Apollo Hospitals offers a range of treatment options provided by specialists in spondylolisthesis:

• Medications: Medications are prescribed to manage pain and reduce inflammation.

• Physical Therapy: This is recommended to strengthen abdominal and back muscles, enhancing spinal stability.

• Corticosteroid Injections: These are administered to reduce inflammation and alleviate acute pain in certain cases.

• Back Braces: Back braces are used in mild cases to provide additional support to the spine.

• Surgery: In severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective, spinal fusion surgery may be performed by surgery doctors for spondylolisthesis to provide long-term relief.