About Spondylolysis

Spondylolysis is a common condition that affects the spine, specifically the vertebrae. It involves a stress fracture in one of the vertebrae, usually in the lower back (lumbar spine). This condition can cause significant pain and discomfort, particularly in young athletes who engage in sports that require repetitive spinal extension, such as gymnastics, football, and weightlifting.

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Symptoms of Spondylolysis

The symptoms of spondylolysis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common signs include:

  • 01Lower Back Pain : Persistent or intermittent pain in the lower back, which may worsen with physical activity.
  • 02StiffnessReduced flexibility and stiffness in the lower back.
  • 03Muscle TightnessTightness in the hamstrings and muscles around the affected area.
  • 04Pain with ExtensionIncreased pain when bending backward or performing activities that extend the spine.
  • 05Radiating PainIn some cases, the pain may radiate to the buttocks or legs, though this is less common.

Causes of Spondylolysis

Spondylolysis is typically caused by repetitive stress or overuse, particularly in young athletes. Contributing factors include:

Repetitive Stress

Activities that repeatedly stress the lower back, such as sports involving hyperextension.

Genetic Factors

A family history of spine problems can increase susceptibility.

Rapid Growth

Adolescents who experience rapid growth spurts may be more prone to developing spondylolysis.

Poor Posture

Prolonged poor posture or improper lifting techniques can contribute to stress fractures.

Avoid Back Surgery Without OrthoRenew

1.

Spondylolysis is a break in the bone connecting the facet joints and is especially common for people engaged in athletics that involve considerable strain on the back. Spinal fusion involving fusing together the vertebrae around where the break has occurred is the common treatment option. There is no way to install the hardware to fuse the spine without cutting through the critical muscles and fascia that stabilize the spine. As a result, spinal fusions create spinal instability around the site of the fusion. Spinal fusions have additionally been shown over time to be no more effective than sham or placebo surgeries while complications occur in 36% of fusion patients.

2.

During this outpatient procedure, our expert physicians use precise image guidance to inject custom concentrations of your body’s natural healing mechanisms into the exact areas of damage around the break to promote natural healing. Best of all, your downtime will be a fraction of surgery, with little to no need for opioid pain medications or time off of work. Call our patient care coordinators today to get started on your path to recovery.