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Spondylolysis

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High Yield Notes

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Flashcards

Spondylolysis

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Questions

USMLE® Step 1 style questions USMLE

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USMLE® Step 2 style questions USMLE

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A 16-year-old boy presents to the clinic for evaluation of low back pain. The patient is participating in gymnastics training and has had difficulty preparing for an upcoming competition due to persistent low back pain that is worse with movement and relieved with rest. The patient is otherwise healthy. He has not had any recent injury or trauma. Vital signs are within normal limits. On physical examination, the low back is noted to be hyperlordotic. Pain is elicited with passive extension of the back. The straight leg test is negative bilaterally. A radiograph of the lumbar spine is shown below. Which of the following best describes the etiology of this patient’s clinical presentation?  


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Summary

Spondylolysis is a spinal condition that occurs when there is a defect or fracture in the pars interarticularis. This condition is most commonly seen in the lower back, or lumbar spine, and is a common cause of chronic low back pain in adolescents.

Symptoms of spondylolysis can include lower back pain that may radiate to the buttocks or legs, muscle spasms, and stiffness in the back. Pain may worsen with activity and improve with rest. Diagnosis of spondylolysis typically involves imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, and a physical exam. Treatment options include rest and avoidance of activities that aggravate the symptoms, physical therapy, pain management with medications, and in some cases, surgery.