Repetitive flexion/extension motion is thought to be a key factor in the development of spondylolysis and aggravation of painful symptoms. Symptoms of these conditions may include dull, aching low back pain that is worsened with athletic activities. There is a higher incidence of spondylolysis in certain populations, including athletes- particularly gymnasts, divers, football linemen, tennis players, divers and rowers. Spondylolysis may be present in 5 to 10 percent of a normal population and is the most common cause of spondylolisthesis. Made up of the Greek roots for “vertebra,” “break” and “slipping,” spondylolysis refers to a defect in the pars interarticularis (the segment of the vertebral arch lying between the superior and inferior articular processes) and spondylolisthesis refers to a defect with slipping of one vertebra on another.īoth conditions are relatively common in children and adolescents. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services Policy Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Always seek medical advice with any questions regarding a medical condition.Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. This article is intended to inform and give insight but not treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a doctor. These cases may require surgical intervention which include a decompression (to release and free up the nerves being compressed by the slippage) and spinal fusion (to stabilise the spine whilst the bone heals). Whilst pain medications and physical therapies as well as exercises to gradually return to sport can help some may not heal or could have resulting neurological problems. If there is a spondylolisthesis, neurological symptoms and pain with the pars defect the treatment plan can be a little different. Physical therapies can help with speeding up the recovery and can include back strengthening exercises and gradual return to sport. Rest and proper healing are vital prior to returning to sport and other activities. If the pars defect is present without spondylolisthesis and neurological symptoms then rest, immobilisation of the area and time can heal the defect. Pars defects can also be linked to degenerative changes in the spinal discs and facet joints, which occurs with age.Weight lifting, wrestling, tennis, dancing due to repetitive, forceful movements.Gymnastics, athletics, diving due to hyperextension and/or extreme twisting.The break in the bone occurs due to undue pressure on the pars interarticularis which can be linked to activities which cause repeated stress and strain. Neurological deficits are relatively rare with the most common symptoms being back pain and leg pain which limits the activity level of the patients. Sometimes the upper vertebra slips forward relative to the lower one – this is referred to as spondylolisthesis. The most common area of the spine this affects is the lower or lumbar spine specifically L5-S1 and L4-5.Ī pars defect is present it can lead to development of other conditions such as stress fractures or spondylolisthesis. Although often asymptomatic it is the most common cause of lower back pain in adolescents (with the majority of cases being in 10 -15 year olds). This can happen on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral) of the spine. A pars defect means that the lower and upper portion of the vertebrae (spine bones) can become separated during repeated stress and strain. The pars interarticularis is a small segment of bone which joins the facet joints at the back of the spine. It affects an area of bone called the pars interarticularis. Mr Nick Thomas explains all about a pars defect for us.Ī pars defect is a condition affecting the lumbar (lower) spine.
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