Spondylolysis

Question 1

Define spondylolysis

Answer 1

A fibrous defect which develops on one or both sides of the neural arch at the pars interarticularis between the superior and inferior articular processes

Question 2

What is the incidence rate of spondylolysis?**

Answer 2

• 85% occur at L5

- 15% at L4

Question 3

What is the etiology of spondylolysis?

Answer 3

1. May occur at any time
2. Stress Fractures
3. Trauma

Question 4

What are S/S of spondylolysis?

Answer 4

1. Pain when fibrous tissue is stretched
2. If Bilateral, vertebrae is divided into two parts
3. Abnormal x-ray

Question 5

What is the treatment for spondylolysis?

Answer 5

1. Stabilize the spine
   - surgery
   - bracing (PT ensures compliance)
   - strengthening (PT’s domain too)
2. Pain reduction
   - modalities
   - medications

Question 6

What is spondylolisthesis?

Answer 6

1. a forward slipping of one vertebral body in relation to the segment below
2. most common between L5 and S1

Question 7

What causes spondylolithesis?

Answer 7

1. Spondylolysis
2. Bilateral pars interarticularis fracture (pathological or traumatic)
3. Degenerative diseases in spine and disc
4. Congenital

Question 8

What are S/S of spondylolithesis?**

Answer 8

1. Gradual onset to back pain*
2. Increased lumbar lordosis
3. Abnormal x-ray

Question 9

What is the treatment for spondylolithesis?

Answer 9

1. Lumbar stabilization
2. Exercise in mild cases
3. Surgery in severe cases