Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis

The bones of the spine are arranged to give the spinal column stability. Damage or defects within the supporting structures of the lumbar spine can be a source of back pain. A crack in the bony ring of the spinal column is called spondylolysis. If a crack occurs on both sides of the bony ring, the spine is free to slip forward. This condition is called spondylolisthesis. About 5 - 6 percent of people are affected by these conditions.