When physical stress causes fracture in the lower back region specifically bottom-most lumbar vertebra, called L5 where the mobile lumbar spine meets the fixed pelvis is called Spondylolysis . The lumbar vertebra consists of a round block of bone at the front, known as the vertebral body, and a bony ring at the back. Three bony 'process' stick out from this ring and provide a place for muscles to attach. The area that is affected by Spondylolysis is a part of the bony ring known as the 'Pars'. It is not clear why, but the Pars area appears to be a weak spot in the vertebra.

Alternative Names of  Spondylolysis Injury :  Stress fracture of Pars Interarticularis

Causes of Spondylolysis Injury

• Genetics :
  An individual born with thin vertebral bone may be vulnerable to this condition. Significant periods of rapid growth may encourage slippage.
• Overuse :
  Some sports, such as cricket, gymnastics, weight lifting, and football, put a great deal of stress on the bones in the lower back. They also require that the athlete constantly overstretch (hyperextend) the spine. In either case, the result is a stress fracture on one or both sides of the vertebra.

Signs & Symptoms of Spondylolysis Injury

• In many people, spondylolysis is present but without any obvious symptoms.
• Pain usually spreads across the lower back and may feel like a muscle strain.
• This condition is most common in adolescents and is quite rare beyond this age group. Typically, it is sore when the patient bends backwards, particularly if standing on one leg.
• Stiffness of the back, and all of the symptoms become worse with exercise and strain which is eased by rest.
• In cases of extensive slipping the torso is shortened, the ribs may rest on the iliac crests, and the abdomen may protrude.
• In severe cases, the pelvic inclination is decreased and the body is swayed backward.

Diagnosis of  Spondylolysis Injury

• The doctor will perform a physical exam.
• Diagnosis is also based upon clinical history
• An X-ray of the lower back can show any fractured vertebra.
• CT scan or MRI to detect very small fractures.

Preventions of  Spondylolysis Injury

• Keeping your back and abdominal muscles strong can help support the lower back
• Activities and sports that do not place your lower back at risk for injury should be preferred like Swimming and biking.
• Avoid overexrcising.
• Good posture should be always maintained. Sitting slumped in front of a computer for long periods should be avoided. The back should be well supported with a Seating Support and regular breaks should be taken.

Treatments of  Spondylolysis Injury

• Nonsurgical  : Initial treatment for spondylolysis is always nonsurgical. The individual should take a break from the activities until symptoms go away, as they often do. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, may help reduce back pain. Occasionally, a back brace and physical therapy may be recommended. In most cases, activities can be resumed gradually and there will be few complications or recurrences. Stretching and strengthening exercises for the back and abdominal muscles can help prevent future recurrences of pain.
• Surgical  : Surgery may be needed if slippage progressively worsens or if back pain does not respond to nonsurgical treatment and begins to interfere with activities of daily living. A spinal fusion is performed between the lumbar vertebra and the sacrum. Sometimes, an internal brace of screws and rods is used to hold together the vertebra as the fusion heals.

When to Call a Doctor

• When you have neck pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter pain medications
• The pain worsens
• You develop numbness in your arms or legs