Spondylolysis
Spondylolysis is a defect or fracture on one or both of the wing-shaped parts of a vertebra, usually in the lower lumbar region.
Spondylolysis is usually detected sometime during childhood. It may occur for one or more reasons.
- Some people are born missing part of, or with damage to, this piece of vertebra.
- The wing-shaped parts of the vertebra may become damaged from strenuous physical activity, especially during the pre-teen and teen years. Certain types of athletes—particularly weight lifters, football players, gymnasts, and javelin throwers—are at increased risk for developing this condition. It usually starts as a stress fracture, and it never completely heals.
- Normal changes associated with aging can weaken this part of the vertebra, leading to fractures or deformities.
Most people can manage spondylolysis by resting from strenuous activity, doing stretching and strengthening exercises, and taking pain relief medicine, such as ibuprofen. Surgery is rarely needed, although it may be considered for people who do not respond to other treatment.
Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis: Overview
Spondylolysis is a defect or fracture of one or both of the wing-shaped parts of a vertebra. It most often happens in the vertebrae of the lower spine. The wing-shaped parts help keep the vertebrae in place. When they are missing or damaged, a vertebra can slide forward or backward over the bone below it, sometimes pressing on the spinal cord or a nerve root.
This slipping is called spondylolisthesis. It can cause back or buttock pain and pain that runs from the lower back down one or both legs. It may cause numbness or weakness in one or both legs. Sometimes it causes no symptoms.
Defects or fractures in the wing-shaped parts can have different causes. Some people are born with a missing or damaged wing-shaped piece. This part of a vertebra may get damaged from playing sports or doing strenuous activity, especially during the pre-teen and teen years. Normal changes that come with aging can weaken this part of a vertebra and lead to fractures or other damage.
Treatment for spondylolisthesis begins with stopping any physical activity that may have led to vertebrae damage or that increases pain. For pain, your doctor may suggest using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen. Physical therapy may help to build up stomach and back muscles (core strengthening). Losing weight, if you need to, may also help. When pain is extreme or bones continue to move, surgery can sometimes help.
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