Spondylolysis is a stress fracture of the lower back, it is an overuse injury associated with sport. It is caused by repeated arching and twisting of the back, which puts too much stress on the pars interarticularis of the vertebrae, causing a weak spot within the bone. It is considered a common cause of low back pain in adolescents.
Signs & symptoms:
- Pain in lower back worse on sporting activities
- Pain eased with rest
- Low back pain on bending backwards.
Treatment involves rest from sporting activities for 6 weeks followed by a rehabilitation programme provided by your physiotherapist to improve muscle function and lower back stability.
