spondylolysis

A defect in the spine that causes acute pain on one side of the lower back. The pain is made worse by twisting and bending movements. Spondylolysis was once thought to be congenital. However, although some people are genetically predisposed to the condition, it is now believed to be a stress fracture of a vertebra (one of the bones that form the spinal column) caused by repeated hyperextensions of the lower back (i.e. bending backwards, a movement commonly performed during weight-training exercises). There is a high incidence of spondylolysis in young female gymnasts who perform front and back walk-overs, vaults, flings, and dismounts. Spondylolysis is often linked with another back injury, spondylolisthesis: the slippage of one vertebra on another (usually the fifth lumbar vertebra on the first sacral vertebra). Spondylisthesis reduces flexibility and usually results in tightening of the hamstrings. Physiotherapy, including abdominal strengthening exercises and hamstring stretches, is often sufficient for mild conditions. Surgical treatment may be necessary if, for example, there is more than 50 per cent vertebral slippage.

A stress fracture in the pars interarticularis (the weakest part of the neural arch) of a vertebra. It is sometimes congenital, but may also be caused by mechanical stress. The condition is characterized by acute pain on one side of the lower back, worsened by twisting and hyperextension. Spondylolysis is unusually common among participants in sports involving repeated hyperextension of the lumbar spine (e.g. fast bowlers, weight-lifters, female gymnasts). Treatment may include bed-rest and a special exercise programme incorporating hamstring stretching.

Degeneration of the articulating part of a vertebra.