What Is Grade 1 Spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis is a forward slip of one of the vertebrae onto the vertebra below it. It occurs most often in the lower back, and can result from sports injuries, birth defects, the aging process, and other problems. A Grade 1 spondylolisthesis is the least severe version of this condition.

Severity

• Spondylolisthesis is graded according to its severity. Grade 1 is least severe, and Grade 5 is the most severe. In a Grade 1 spondylolisthesis, the vertebra has slipped forward 25 percent.

Symptoms

• Many people with a Grade 1 spondylolisthesis have no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they are typically mild and include post-exercise back pain, numbness or pain in the legs, and urinary or fecal incontinence.

Types

• There are two primary types of spondylolisthesis. Acquired spondylolisthesis is common in older adults and can be caused by repetitive movements or a sudden injury. Developmental spondylolisthesis occurs during childhood but may not be diagnosed until later in life.

Frequency

• Spondylolisthesis affects up to 3 percent of women and up to 6 percent of men. It is often seen in children ages 9 to 14, and in athletes and others involved in strenuous physical activities.

Treatment

• A Grade 1 spondylolisthesis is treated with medication for pain and swelling, and bed rest followed by physical therapy. Surgery is seldom needed for a Grade 1 spondylolisthesis.