Two similar-looking words that mean quite different things.
In more detail
- Spondylosis is a general term for age-related wear in the spine — disc degeneration, bone spurs and facet arthritis together. It is descriptive and extremely common.
- Spondylolysis is a defect or stress fracture in a specific part of the vertebra (the pars interarticularis), often seen in young athletes.
- Spondylolisthesis is one vertebra having slipped forward on the one below. It is graded 1 to 4 by how far it has slipped.
What it means for you
Spondylosis on a report is generally the equivalent of ‘wear and tear’. Spondylolisthesis is a more specific structural finding, though even a Grade 1 slip is frequently stable and asymptomatic for decades.
Remember the general rule. Findings like this one are common in people with no pain at all, and become steadily more common with age. A finding on a report is not a diagnosis until someone has matched it to your symptoms and your examination. See understanding your MRI report.
Bring your scan and report in and we will go through it with you. Call (314) 310-5577 or request an appointment.
Common questions
Is a spondylolisthesis dangerous?
Low-grade slips are usually stable and managed conservatively. It is monitored where there is progression or nerve compression.
Hurt in an accident? Start here.
You do not need a lawyer, a police report or a referral to be seen. Bring your symptoms and we will work out the rest.
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Same-day appointments are often available for new accident and injury patients.