Conditions & Diagnoses: A-Z

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Lumbar Spondylolysis

Definition:
'Spondylolysis' is a defect of a vertebra. More specifically it is defined as a defect in the pars interarticularis of the vertebral arch.
Symptoms:
  • Pain in the low back
  • Stiffness in the low back
  • Pain with bending backward
  • Pain worse with activities and ease with rest
  • Radiating pain in lower extremity
Causes:
  • Stress fracture of the lumbar vertebrae
  • Common in adolescents that overtrain in activities
  • Hereditary component
  • Repetitive trauma to lumbar spine
Treatment:
  • ROM and stretching
  • Posture program
  • Core stabilization strengthening
  • Lower extremity strengthening
  • Possible surgical intervention