Birth defects, injuries, and a rapid growth spurt during adolescence can cause spondylolisthesis. Rigorous sports such as football, weightlifting, and gymnastics can also lead to this condition. Spondylolysis is a condition involving a fracture or fractures of the vertebral bodies. It can also result in spondylolisthesis. Degeneration due to age, tumors, and surgery are possible causes as well.