Summary
The clinical picture of spondylolisthesis can be a degenerative process in which vertebrae are shifted against each other due to wear and tear. However, it is frequently found in childhood and adolescence in gymnasts, dolphin swimmers, trampoline gymnasts and similar sports where enormous loads are placed on vertebrae that are still in the growth phase. Therefore, an exact analysis should be carried out to first eliminate the contributing factors and then, in a second step, to develop an adapted therapy.
Since muscular instability combined with abrupt movements and overstretching over a longer period of time is usually the trigger, static exercises to strengthen the supporting apparatus are recommended. The earlier the disease is detected and the growth process of the vertebrae is not yet complete, the better the therapy options are, since targeted exercises and postural corrections can be used to intervene. In general, it can be said that one-sided overloading should be avoided and continuous training of the supporting apparatus of the trunk muscles and also of the deep back muscles (Multifidi) has a preventive effect. There are numerous variations and instructions for isometric and dynamic exercises that can be integrated into everyday life depending on the degree of the disease.
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