Spondylolysis is a common cause of lower back pain in young adults, often caused by stress on the vertebrae from sports or genetics. Diagnosis is difficult, but X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans can help. Treatment involves rest, pain relief, and physical therapy.
Spondylolysis is a problem that develops between the vertebrae, the bones that help form the spine. The condition actually develops in the pars interarticularis, the connection between the vertebrae. These connections are what allow the spine to curve and bend. Most cases of spondylolysis develop in the lower lumbar vertebrae, but it can develop further up the back and even in the thoracic vertebrae.
It’s hard to know what causes spondylolysis, but it’s most commonly diagnosed in adolescents between the ages of 15 and 16 and is most often seen near the end of a rapid growth spurt. It is the most common cause of lower back pain in young adults. While doctors often have trouble pinpointing the exact cause of spondylolysis, there are certain behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Some cases of spondylolysis occur due to stress on the vertebrae. This is common for teenagers who play sports such as weight lifting, gymnastics or dancing. Other cases are related to genetics. While three to six percent of the general U.S. population is diagnosed with spondylolysis, the number rises to over 30 percent for Eskimo Americans.
Spondylosis is difficult to diagnose. Often the initial diagnosis is a muscle spasm. The first symptom felt is typically lower back pain. The pain gets worse with activity or exercise. If the condition continues untreated, the disc can slip out of place, causing a condition known as spondylolisthesis. This is when the damage to the pars interarticularis is so severe that the vertebrae shift or twist to one side.
For an accurate diagnosis, a doctor will do an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan of the area of your back that is experiencing pain. MRIs and CT scans are more effective diagnostic tools because they can detect fractures that are too small to show on an X-ray and are also good at ruling out a pinched nerve or bulging disc, two other common causes of back pain.
Once a diagnosis is made, treatment is relatively simple. The aim of treatment is to reduce pain and allow the bone to heal. Rest and pain relievers are often prescribed. If the pain is too severe for over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication. In severe cases, an epidural steroid is given to reduce inflammation in the area and relieve pain. To prevent re-injury, the patient may be required to wear back support and may also participate in physical therapy.
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