Other Conditions

Spondylolisthesis is a condition wherein one vertebra slips or dislocates, moving out of place relative to the adjacent vertebrae, causing back pain and neurologic problems. The dislocation of a vertebra narrows the space in the spinal canal, leading to back pain. And it may also apply pressure on the surrounding nerves, leading to neurologic problems. Spondylolisthesis can happen on any part of the spinal column, but it’s most common in the lumbar region, i.e., the lower back spine.

The following are the common symptoms of spondylolisthesis:

• Severe pain while standing, bending backward, or walking.
• Burning back pain sensations.
• The pain worsens after exercise.
• Sciatica pain shooting down the legs and buttocks.
• The pain is accompanied by weakness or numbness.
• Cramping pains in the buttocks and thighs.

Dr. McHugh identifies the root of the problem to curate the ideal treatment plan. Mild spondylolisthesis cases can be treated with bed rest, medications, physical therapy, and other non-invasive procedures. However, if your situation doesn’t improve with non-surgical treatments or you suffer from severe spondylolisthesis, Dr. McHugh may recommend a spinal fusion surgery to stabilize the spine. Dr. McHugh specializes in cutting-edge and minimally-invasive procedures that ensure smooth and effective recovery.

The facet joints and the intervertebral discs are the primary spinal components responsible for mobility and flexibility. The facet joints, visible at the posterior section of the spine, facilitate bending, twisting, and extending motions, and they restrict whiplash and other excessive movements. Like all other joints in the human body, the facet joints are also surrounded by connective tissues that produce synovial fluids for lubrication. The lubrication from the connective tissues and the cartilages ensure smooth operation and mobility.

Over time, factors like genetics, excessive use, and trauma to the joint lead to arthritis of the facet joints. A lumbar facet cyst is a condition that leads to nerve compression, and it happens due to facet joint arthritis. As your facet joints degenerate, the connective tissues produce excess synovial fluids to protect the joints. In some cases, the excess synovial fluid drains into the joint capsule, leading to a sac-like cystic formation, otherwise known as a facet cyst. You can get facet cysts in any part of the spinal column, but they usually occur in the lumbar (lower back) region.

Facet cysts often go undiagnosed for long periods because they don’t lead to immediate symptoms. Over time, the gradual buildup of fluids in the cysts may lead to spinal stenosis, which, in turn, leads to leg pain, muscle weakness, numbness, tingling sensations, and other symptoms. Dr. McHugh primarily treats lumbar facet cysts with non-invasive medications and physical therapy, but minimally invasive surgical intervention may be necessary in severe cases.