Spondylolysis
Spondylolysis
Spondylolysis occurs when one of the vertebrae (usually the fifth lumbar vertebra) fractures. This fracture at the pars interarticularis (rear portion of the vertebra) is a very common cause of low back, occurring in adolescents and athletes due to hyperextension injuries but is often found as a genetic, inherited condition as well. Spondylolysis causes what feels like a muscle strain in the low back area. Treatments are usually conservative and attempt to allow the vertebra to heal with the use of anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, and occasionally bracing.