Spondylolisthesis in the Young Athlete

In brief Young athletes with persistent unexplained low-back pain or tight hamstrings should be evaluated for possible spondylolisthesis. Although the physical examination is often unrevealing, hamstring tightness is a common finding in symptomatic patients. Anteroposterior, lateral, and possibly right and left oblique x-rays of the lumbosacral spine will suggest the diagnosis. The degree of vertebral slippage and the presence or absence of symptoms will determine whether conservative therapy or operative intervention is appropriate.