Lumbar Spine Stress Fractures 

What is it?

Lumbar spine stress fractures, also known as spondylolysis, are small fractures in the pars interarticularis, a thin section of the vertebra. This simply means small micro fractures which heal turn into fractures.

 

Who Gets them?

They are common in athletes involved in repetitive hyperextension (bending backwards) and rotational movements, such as gymnasts, cricketers, footballers, and weightlifters. They are very common in young fast bowlers.

 

        Why do we get them?

• Repetitive hyperextension and rotation of the lower back (e.g., fast bowling in cricket, gymnastics flips).

• Overuse/poor recovery and poor technique in your activity

• Weak core muscles leading to increased lumbar stress.

• Rapid growth spurts in adolescent athletes.​

• Playing a sport at an intensity that your body cant handle.

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How does it feel?

• Lower back pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

• Sharp pain when doing the activity, such as cricket bowling.

• Pain can that radiates into the buttocks or thighs, not always.

• Stiffness and muscle tightness, especially in the hamstrings.

• Tenderness over the lower lumbar spine.

• Waking up with pain which gets better with movement

 

How can we confirm it?

• Seeing a specialist at The Physio-logy clinic for an assessment.

• Imaging: X-rays (initial screening), MRI, or CT scan for detailed assessment.

• Clinical tests

• Seeing a consultant​

How is it treated?

Acute Phase (Pain Management & Healing)

• Activity modification (avoid hyperextension and high-impact activities).

• Core strengthening (focus on deep core stability).

• Physiotherapy (manual therapy, soft tissue release).

 

Long Term Phase: 

• Gradual progressive loading of the lumbar spine according to healing stage

• Biomechanical corrections (improve technique in sports movements).

• Strength & conditioning (focus on glutes, core, and posterior chain).

• Sport-specific drills and gradual return to play.