National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Practice Test

What is not associated with degenerative spondylolisthesis?

1. Male sex

2. Age

3. Female sex

4. Obesity

The correct answer is: Female sex

Degenerative spondylolisthesis is a condition more commonly associated with older adults and has specific risk factors related to aging and biological changes. While it can occur in individuals of any sex, certain demographic trends have been identified. For example, there is a higher prevalence of degenerative spondylolisthesis among females, particularly in post-menopausal women, due to factors such as hormonal changes that affect bone density and spinal integrity. In contrast, age is a significant risk factor as the condition typically develops over time due to wear and tear on the spine. Additionally, factors like obesity, which increases mechanical stress on the spine, are also linked to an increased incidence of this condition. Male sex has shown a lower prevalence in comparison to females regarding degenerative spondylolisthesis. Therefore, identifying female sex as not generally associated with degenerative spondylolisthesis is appropriate based on the understanding that the condition is more prevalent in females rather than distinguishing them as a non-associated group.