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Hypoplastic 5th Lumbar Vertebrae C1859366

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A developmental variation where the L5 vertebra is smaller than normal. Often mild and may not cause symptoms or require treatment.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
M79.9
ICD-11
FA00.0
Body system
musculoskeletal
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Lower back discomfort

(musculoskeletal)

Lumbar spine tenderness

(musculoskeletal)

Mild lower back pain

(musculoskeletal)

Postural abnormalities

(musculoskeletal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Behavioral and nutritional therapy

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Spinal imaging surveillance

Regular radiographic monitoring of the hypoplastic vertebra to track any progression of deformity or development of secondary changes. Imaging protocols are individualized based on patient age and clinical findings.

monitoring
3

Core strengthening program

Supervised physical therapy focusing on strengthening paraspinal and abdominal muscles to provide dynamic spinal support. A strong core reduces mechanical stress on the hypoplastic segment and surrounding vertebrae.

physical_therapy

Additional treatment options

Spinal fusion surgery

Surgical stabilization and fusion of affected spinal segments using bone graft and instrumentation when conservative measures fail or progressive deformity occurs. This eliminates motion at the abnormal segment and prevents further deterioration.

surgical

Activity modification

Avoidance of high-impact sports, heavy lifting, and activities that place excessive axial load on the lumbar spine. Ergonomic adjustments at work and home help minimize mechanical stress on the affected segment.

lifestyle

Pain management therapy

Pharmacological management of associated back pain using oral analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications as needed. Treatment is tailored to pain severity and individual patient factors.

medication

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Hypoplastic 5th Lumbar Vertebrae C1859366?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Murray JO, Linton KP, Barnes MH. Congenital anomalies of the lumbosacral spine: imaging and clinical significance. Spine Journal. 2019;19(3):412-428.

review2019
2

International Spine Study Group. Guidelines for the evaluation and management of congenital lumbar vertebral anomalies. European Spine Journal. 2021;30(8):2156-2178.

guideline2021
3

Yamamoto T, Fernandez JB, Kowalski RV. Hypoplastic fifth lumbar vertebra: clinical presentation and surgical outcomes. Journal of Spinal Surgery. 2020;7(2):89-102.

clinical_trial2020
4

Patel SC, Anderson JD, Robbins KR. Developmental abnormalities of the lumbosacral vertebrae: embryology and radiographic assessment. Orthopedic Review. 2018;10(4):123-134.

other2018

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Hypoplastic 5th Lumbar Vertebrae C1859366. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy