Cervical dysplastic (congenital) spondylolisthesis (CDS) is a rare condition in which a cervical vertebra slips forward due to developmental malformation of the posterior elements (pars interarticularis and facets) rather than trauma or degeneration. Unlike more common lumbar forms, CDS most often involves C6, with bilateral pars defects and associated spina bifida on imaging E-Neurospine. Early recognition is key to avoid misdiagnosis as an acute fracture or tumour and to guide appropriate conservative versus surgical management E-Neurospine.
Anatomy
Structure & Location
CDS affects the pars interarticularis of a cervical vertebra—most frequently C6—where a cleft allows anterior slip of that vertebra over the one below E-Neurospine.
Origin & “Insertion”
Although bony, the pars forms part of the vertebral arch connecting the superior and inferior articular processes; its “origin” and “insertion” terminology refers to its junctions with these adjacent articular facets Radiopaedia.
Blood Supply
Segmental branches of the vertebral and ascending cervical arteries supply the posterior arch, including the pars interarticularis Radiopaedia.
Nerve Supply
Sensory innervation arises from the medial branches of the dorsal rami at the affected level, making pars defects potentially painful Radiopaedia.
Functions of the Cervical Vertebrae
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Support: Bear the weight of the head.
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Protection: Encase and safeguard the cervical spinal cord.
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Motion: Permit flexion, extension, lateral bending, and rotation.
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Load Transmission: Distribute forces between head and trunk.
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Muscle Attachment: Serve as anchors for cervical musculature.
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Stability: Maintain alignment and prevent excessive slip Cleveland Clinic.
Types
According to the Wiltse–Newman system, spondylolisthesis is divided into:
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Type I (Dysplastic/Congenital): Caused by hypoplastic facets or malformed pars; posterior elements are intact Radiopaedia.
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Type II (Isthmic): Pars fatigue fracture, elongation, or acute break.
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Type III (Degenerative): Facet joint arthritis with slip.
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Type IV (Traumatic): Fracture of posterior elements.
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Type V (Pathologic): Due to bone disease (tumor, infection).
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Type VI (Iatrogenic): Post-surgical slippage Orthobullets.
Causes
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Developmental Pars Dysplasia (congenital malformation of chondrification centers) E-Neurospine
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Spina Bifida Occulta of the affected vertebra E-Neurospine
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Repetitive Microtrauma (e.g., sports) Orthobullets
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Acute Pars Fracture (trauma) Orthobullets
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Degenerative Facet Arthropathy PubMed Central
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Intervertebral Disc Degeneration PubMed Central
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Osteoarthritis of cervical facets Cleveland Clinic
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Osteoporosis weakening bony structures NCBI
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Hyperparathyroidism (bone resorption) NCBI
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Paget’s Disease of bone NCBI
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Metastatic Bone Disease NCBI
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Infectious Osteomyelitis NCBI
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Ankylosing Spondylitis (ankylosis stress on adjacent) NCBI
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Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis NCBI
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Rheumatoid Arthritis of cervical facets NCBI
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Trauma-Related Nonunion (pseudoarthrosis) E-Neurospine
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Genetic Predisposition (familial reports) E-Neurospine
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Normal Variant Elongation of pedicle E-Neurospine
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Iatrogenic after Laminectomy Orthobullets
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Aggressive Physical Therapy causing microfracture Orthobullets
Symptoms
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Intermittent posterior neck pain E-Neurospine
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Stiffness in neck movement Cleveland Clinic
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Occipital headaches Cleveland Clinic
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Cervical muscle spasm Cleveland Clinic
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Radicular arm pain PubMed Central
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Paresthesia in hands/fingers PubMed Central
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Weakness of upper limbs PubMed Central
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Hyperreflexia of biceps/triceps PubMed Central
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L’Hermitte’s sign (electric shocks on flexion) PubMed Central
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Gait disturbance (myelopathy) PubMed Central
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Balance issues PubMed Central
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Clumsiness of hands PubMed Central
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Spasticity in lower extremities in severe cases PubMed Central
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Bowel/bladder dysfunction (rare) PubMed Central
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Facial numbness (C2 involvement) E-Neurospine
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Torticollis (compensatory posture) Wascher Cervical Spine Institute
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Dysphagia (rare anterior slip) Wascher Cervical Spine Institute
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Tinel-like tapping over affected pars E-Neurospine
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Audible crepitus on movement Cleveland Clinic
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Muscle fatigue after prolonged holding Cleveland Clinic
Diagnostic Tests: Modalities
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Plain X-ray (Lateral, AP) – shows slip and pars defect E-Neurospine
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Oblique X-ray (Scotty-dog sign) Orthobullets
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Flexion–Extension Films – assess instability E-Neurospine
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Computed Tomography (CT) – cortical margins, pedicle hypoplasia E-Neurospine
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3D CT Reconstruction – detailed osseous anatomy E-Neurospine
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – cord compression, soft-tissue E-Neurospine
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MR Myelography – CSF flow and compression E-Neurospine
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Single-Photon Emission CT (SPECT) – active spondylolysis Orthobullets
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Bone Scan – stress reaction detection Orthobullets
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Electromyography (EMG) – root irritation NCBI
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Nerve Conduction Studies – peripheral involvement NCBI
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Somatosensory Evoked Potentials – cord function NCBI
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Digital Subtraction Myelography NCBI
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Discography – discogenic pain differentiation NCBI
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Ultrasound – muscle spasm evaluation Cleveland Clinic
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CT Angiography – vertebral artery mapping Cleveland Clinic
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Dynamic MRI Cleveland Clinic
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Radiographic Stress Views – end-range slip E-Neurospine
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Videofluoroscopy – real-time motion analysis Cleveland Clinic
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Genetic Testing – rare syndromic cases E-Neurospine
Non-Pharmacological Treatments: Strategies
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Cervical Collar (Soft/Hard) – limit motion E-Neurospine
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Activity Modification – avoid hyperextension Orthobullets
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Heat Therapy – muscle relaxation Cleveland Clinic
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Ice Packs – pain reduction Cleveland Clinic
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Traction – vertebral decompression Cleveland Clinic
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Manual Therapy – joint mobilization Cleveland Clinic
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Massage – myofascial release Cleveland Clinic
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Chiropractic Adjustment – realignment Cleveland Clinic
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Acupuncture – pain modulation Cleveland Clinic
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TENS – neuromodulation Cleveland Clinic
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Ultrasound Therapy – deep heat Cleveland Clinic
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Electrical Stimulation – muscle activation Cleveland Clinic
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Hydrotherapy – buoyancy support Cleveland Clinic
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Yoga – gentle stretching Cleveland Clinic
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Pilates – core stability Cleveland Clinic
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Cervical Strengthening Exercises – longus colli, trapezius Cleveland Clinic
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Posture Training – ergonomics Cleveland Clinic
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Ergonomic Pillow – neutral alignment Cleveland Clinic
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Workstation Adjustments – monitor height Cleveland Clinic
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Core Stability Training – global support Cleveland Clinic
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Breathing Exercises – muscle relaxation Cleveland Clinic
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Biofeedback – posture awareness Cleveland Clinic
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Aquatic Therapy – low-impact motion Cleveland Clinic
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Cervical Stretching – scalenes, levator scapulae Cleveland Clinic
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Soft Tissue Release – trigger point work Cleveland Clinic
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Education – body mechanics Cleveland Clinic
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Weight Management – load reduction Cleveland Clinic
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Smoking Cessation – bone health Cleveland Clinic
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Mindfulness Meditation – pain coping Cleveland Clinic
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Bracing (TLSO C‐brace) – high-grade slip stabilization Orthobullets
Pharmacological Treatments: Drugs
| Drug | Class | Dosage Example | Timing | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ibuprofen | NSAID | 400 mg PO q6–8 h | With meals | GI upset, headache |
| Naproxen | NSAID | 250–500 mg PO BID | Morning/Evening | Dyspepsia, dizziness |
| Diclofenac | NSAID | 50 mg PO TID | With food | Edema, elevated LFTs |
| Celecoxib | COX-2 inhibitor | 100–200 mg PO BID | With food | Cardiovascular risk, edema |
| Meloxicam | NSAID | 7.5–15 mg PO QD | Morning | GI upset, dizziness |
| Acetaminophen | Analgesic | 500–1000 mg PO Q6H | PRN | Hepatotoxicity (high dose) |
| Cyclobenzaprine | Muscle relaxant | 5–10 mg PO TID PRN | Night/PRN | Sedation, dry mouth |
| Tizanidine | Muscle relaxant | 2–4 mg PO Q6–8 h | PRN | Hypotension, sedation |
| Gabapentin | Neuropathic agent | 300–1200 mg/day | Divided doses | Drowsiness, edema |
| Pregabalin | Neuropathic agent | 75–150 mg PO BID | Morning/Evening | Weight gain, dizziness |
| Duloxetine | SNRI | 30–60 mg PO QD | Morning | Nausea, dry mouth |
| Amitriptyline | TCA | 10–25 mg PO QHS | Bedtime | Sedation, anticholinergic |
| Tramadol | Opioid agonist | 50–100 mg PO Q4–6 h | PRN | Constipation, dizziness |
| Oxycodone | Opioid agonist | 5–10 mg PO Q4–6 h | PRN | Respiratory depression |
| Buprenorphine | Opioid partial agonist | 0.3 mg buccal q12 h | PRN | Sedation, nausea |
| Prednisone | Corticosteroid | 5–10 mg PO QD | Morning | Weight gain, hyperglycemia |
| Methylprednisolone | Corticosteroid | 4 mg PO Q6 h tapered | Morning | Mood changes, insomnia |
| Cyclo-oxygenase – reduce inflammation; SNRI – serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor; TCA – tricyclic antidepressant. |
Dosing varies by patient factors; monitor for side effects. Cleveland ClinicPubMed Central
Dietary Supplements: Options
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Vitamin D (1000–2000 IU/day) – bone mineralization via calcium absorption NCBI
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Calcium (1000–1200 mg/day) – supports bone strength NCBI
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Magnesium (300–400 mg/day) – cofactor for bone enzymes NCBI
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids (1000 mg EPA/DHA) – anti-inflammatory
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Glucosamine (1500 mg/day) – cartilage support
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Chondroitin (1200 mg/day) – joint lubrication
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Collagen Peptides (10 g/day) – extracellular matrix precursor
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Turmeric (Curcumin) (500 mg BID) – COX-2 inhibition Verywell Health
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Boswellia Serrata (300 mg TID) – 5-LOX pathway blockade Verywell Health
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MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) (1000 mg BID) – collagen synthesis support Verywell Health
Advanced Biologic & Regenerative Agents: Drugs
| Agent | Functional Category | Dosage Example | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alendronate | Bisphosphonate | 70 mg PO weekly | Inhibits osteoclast-mediated resorption |
| Zoledronic Acid | Bisphosphonate | 5 mg IV yearly | Osteoclast apoptosis |
| Teriparatide | PTH analog | 20 µg SC daily | Stimulates osteoblasts |
| Denosumab | RANKL inhibitor | 60 mg SC Q6 months | Blocks osteoclast formation |
| Hyaluronic Acid | Viscosupplement | 2–4 mL IA injection | Improves joint lubrication |
| Platelet-Rich Plasma | Regenerative medicine | 3–5 mL injection | Growth factor delivery |
| Mesenchymal Stem Cells | Stem cell therapy | 1×10⁶–10⁷ cells IA | Differentiation into disc/ligament cells |
| BMP-2 | Bone morphogenetic protein | 1.5 mg in graft | Induces bone formation |
| PRP + HA | Combined biologic | As above | Synergistic cartilage/regeneration effect |
| Autologous MSCs | Cell-based therapy | 1×10⁶ cells per level | Spinal fusion enhancement |
Most are investigational; consult specialist. NCBI
Surgical Options: 10 Procedures
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Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF) – decompress and fuse E-Neurospine
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Anterior Cervical Corpectomy & Fusion – remove vertebral body, fuse E-Neurospine
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Posterior Cervical Laminectomy & Fusion – dorsal decompression E-Neurospine
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Posterior Cervical Arthrodesis – facet fusion E-Neurospine
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Pars Repair with Screw – direct defect fixation Orthobullets
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Laminoplasty – expand canal, preserve motion PubMed Central
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Foraminotomy – nerve root decompression PubMed Central
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Dynamic Stabilization (Disc-Replacement) PubMed Central
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Posterolateral Fusion with Instrumentation PubMed Central
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Minimally Invasive Cervical Fusion PubMed Central
Preventive Measures: 10 Strategies
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Early Detection (screen incidental findings) E-Neurospine
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Regular Cervical Strengthening Cleveland Clinic
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Postural Education Cleveland Clinic
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Ergonomic Workstation Setup Cleveland Clinic
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Avoidance of Hyperextension Activities Orthobullets
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Use of Protective Gear (sports) Orthobullets
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Routine Imaging in High-Risk Athletes Orthobullets
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Bone Health Optimization (vitamin D/calcium) NCBI
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Smoking Cessation NCBI
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Weight Management Cleveland Clinic
When to See a Doctor
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Persistent Neck Pain lasting >4–6 weeks despite conservative care Cleveland Clinic
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Neurological Signs: weakness, numbness, hyperreflexia PubMed Central
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Trauma History with new slip on imaging E-Neurospine
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Bowel/Bladder Changes PubMed Central
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Severe Headaches or Balance Issues Cleveland Clinic
Frequently Asked Questions (15)**
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What exactly is congenital cervical spondylolisthesis?
A developmental defect of the pars interarticularis causing vertebral slip E-Neurospine. -
How common is CDS?
Extremely rare—≈100 cases reported, most at C6 E-Neurospine. -
Can it worsen over time?
Low-grade slips often stable; dysplastic type may progress Orthobullets. -
Is surgery always needed?
No—most respond to collar and NSAIDs; surgery for instability or neurologic deficit E-Neurospine. -
How is CDS distinguished from fracture?
Well-corticated margins, associated dysplasia, and spina bifida E-Neurospine. -
Will I need lifelong bracing?
Usually bracing for 6–12 weeks; long-term brace rarely required Orthobullets. -
Can I play sports?
Modify activities; contact sports discouraged until healed Orthobullets. -
Are there genetic risks?
Possible familial patterns reported E-Neurospine. -
Does CDS cause headaches?
Occipital headaches can occur due to muscle spasm Cleveland Clinic. -
Can CDS cause myelopathy?
Rarely—only high-grade or cord-involving slips PubMed Central. -
What imaging is best?
CT for bone detail; MRI for cord/soft tissue E-Neurospine. -
Is physical therapy helpful?
Yes—strengthening and traction improve symptoms Orthobullets. -
Any lifestyle changes reduce risk?
Good posture, avoid hyperextension, maintain bone health NCBI. -
Are supplements effective?
Vitamin D and calcium support bone; anti-inflammatory herbs may help Verywell Health. -
What’s the outlook?
Excellent with proper management; most remain symptom-free long-term E-Neurospine.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
The article is written by Team Rxharun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members
Last Updated: May 06, 2025.
