What is Spondylolysis?
Defect or injury leading to stress fracture in the vertebral bone (usually, the fifth lumbar vertebra in the lower back) forming the spinal column is medically termed as spondylolysis.
Spondylolysis Symptoms
1. Low back pain with the tendency to spread in the surrounding areas and giving a feeling of muscle strain is the first indication that the pain could be due to spondylolysis. This pain worsens with vigorous exercise or physical activity.
2. Spondylolysis is most common among the adolescent athletes, gymnasts, and typically affects the teens of 15-16 years of age.
3. Some spondylolysis patients also report tightening of hamstring muscles.
Spondylolysis may also be present without any of the above mentioned symptoms.
Causes of Spondylolysis
Spondylolysis is mainly caused by a weakness in a section of the vertebra known as pars interarticularis, which is a slender bone connecting the upper and lower facet joints segments. The causes of such weakness could be any of the following:
1. The patient may be predisposed to spondylolysis by having been born with slender vertebral bone.
2. Overuse of lower back in a short span of time or repetitive trauma in case of sportspersons, like gymnasts, weightlifters, few football moves and some athletic disciplines. This causes stress fracture on either or both sides of the vertebra.
Spondylolysis Treatment
1. Complete rest of the spinal muscles is advised in the initial stages to prevent further damage and allowing the fracture to heal by itself. Over the counter Non-Steroidal Anti inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) are usually prescribed (e.g., ibuprofen) for reduction of inflammation and pain. In case NSAIDS do not work effectively, stronger medications and even epidural steroid injections may be prescribed. The doctors may also suggest a program of physiotherapy for building muscle strength and encouraging pain-free movements.
2. Severe cases of spondylolysis may also be prescribed a brace or back support in order to stabilize and support the lower back, while the fracture takes its time to heal.
