Spondylolisthesis Causes & Risks

Causes

Spondylolisthesis is most often caused by a stress fracture of a vertebra, which often occurs in sports activities that put a lot of stress and pressure on the back or overstretches the spine. The condition can also result from congenital disorders of the spine, which are disorders that are present at birth.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

The following factors may increase your risk of spondylolisthesis:

Age: 10-15 (This is when most of the progression of the condition occurs, but symptoms may not appear until adulthood.)
Rapid growth
Being an athlete, especially gymnasts, weight-lifters, and football players
Genetic predisposition

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