How To Help Determine The Actual Problem
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Ruling Out Other Possible Injuries
Radiography
Using a plain radiograph from a lateral view, Spondylolysis is easily diagnosed. If a vertebra appears to be translated even slightly either posteriorly or anteriorly, the patient is suffering from Spondylolisthesis. A fracture noted in a radiograph will diagnose a patient suffering from Spondylolysis. This may be more easily viewed from an anterior or posterior X-Ray.
Special Tests
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ROM/MMT
Since the location of the injury is in such a vital area surrounded with nerve roots and the spinal cord, it is important to note that ROM and MMT's may be dangerous or pose threat to further injuring a patient. It is best to have X-rays administered first if any fracture or translation of a vertebra is suspected.
If X-rays have been completed and come back negative, ROM and MMT's may be performed yet with extreme caution to avoid causing neurological damage. These ROM tests may include testing flexion, extension, lateral flexion, as well as rotation of the spine. MMT's include a grading scale to rate how well the patient is able to perform flexion and extension. However, since extension of the lumbar spine is what we are trying to avoid, it is not recommended that this be tested. |