What is the Difference Between Spondylosis and Spondylolisthesis?

Spondylosis, spondylolysis, and spondylolisthesis are three distinct conditions affecting the spine, each with its unique characteristics and causes. Here are the differences between them:

Spondylosis: This refers to degenerative osteoarthritis (OA) of the spine, which is a common age-related degeneration of the spinal structures. It is also known as spinal osteoarthritis and can lead to chronic pain, degenerative disc disease, and other complications.
Spondylolysis: This is a stress fracture or weakness in the pars interarticularis, a small, thin portion of the vertebra that connects the upper and lower facet joints. Spondylolysis can occur in both children and adolescents, particularly those involved in sports that involve repeated stress on the lumbar spine, such as gymnastics and football. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to instability, nerve compression, and spondylolisthesis.
Spondylolisthesis: This condition is defined by the slipping of one vertebra over another, causing damage to the spinal structure. It can be caused by a stress fracture or damage to the intervertebral discs, and sometimes has a family history or congenital defects. Spondylolisthesis can result from the progression of a spondylolysis injury. It is classified into different grades based on the extent of vertebral slippage, with Grade I being 0-25% and Grade V being more than 100%.

Treatment for these conditions can vary depending on the severity and specific symptoms. Some common treatments include conservative approaches like back braces, pain medications, and stretching exercises. In some cases, surgery such as spinal decompression or spinal fusion may be necessary.

On this page

What is the Difference Between Spondylosis and Spondylolisthesis?

Comparative Table: Spondylosis vs Spondylolisthesis

Spondylosis and spondylolisthesis are two different conditions affecting the spine. Here is a table comparing the main differences between the two:

Feature	Spondylosis	Spondylolisthesis
Definition	Spondylosis is an umbrella term for the deterioration of the spinal vertebrae and associated structures, particularly the disc and facet joints.	Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over another, causing damage to the spinal structure.
Causes	Common and considered a normal part of the aging process. Almost everyone over the age of 50 has some degree of spondylosis.	Can be caused by repetitive stress or trauma at the lumbar spine from strenuous activities like gymnastics, dancing, wrestling, and football. Other factors include genetics, lifestyle, and congenital defects.
Symptoms	Symptoms often begin like spondylolisthesis and may include localized pain that may come and go with certain activities, pain that improves with sitting or lying down.	Symptoms may or may not be present initially, but as the injury progresses, these individuals may complain of pain as they bend backward or pain with general activities.
Grading	Not applicable	Spondylolisthesis is graded based on the extent of slippage: Grade I: 0-25%, Grade II: 25-50%, Grade III: 50-75%, Grade IV: 75-100%, Grade V: > 100%.
Treatment	Treating spondylosis often involves conservative treatments like back braces, pain medications, and stretching exercises. If these treatments aren't effective, surgery may be an option.	Treatment options are similar to those for spondylosis, but the focus may be on addressing the specific cause of the vertebral slippage.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan if you suspect you have either of these conditions.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.