Back brace spondylolysis treatment
Spondylolysis can be caused by: • A congenital defect in the spine, which usually appears a few years after birth • Acute trauma to the back • Chronic overextension of the back as from certain sports and activities • Degenerative conditions of the spine • Cerebral palsy – rarely A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease, condition or injury. • Playing sports such as: o Gymnastics o Football, especially the offensive line o Diving o Wrestling o Weightlifting • Improper athletic or exercise technique Symptoms may include: • Pain across the lower back • Spasms in the back and hamstring muscles • Pain radiating down the leg • Back pain that starts during an adolescent growth spurt However, many people with spondylolysis have no symptoms at all. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include: X-ray – a test that uses radiation to take a picture of the spine to look for defects and/or fractures CT Scan – a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of bony structures inside the back MRI Scan – a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of both soft tissue and bony structures inside the back If you have no symptoms from the spondylolysis, no treatment is needed. If you have symptoms treatment, the recommended treatment program for active spondylolysis is usually a combination of the following: • Back brace to immobilize the spine for a short period (e.g. four months) to allow the pars defect to heal • Pain medications and/or anti-inflammatory medication, as needed • Stretching, beginning with gentle hamstring stretching and progressing with additional stretches over time • Exercise that is controlled and builds gradually over time, with restrictions on extension (bending backwards) On rare occasions, spondylolysis that is not healing or may have neurological components can require surgery to provide internal fixation and stability to the area, and if necessary to reduce pressure on the nerves. • Occasionally, a decompressive laminectomy may be needed to reduce pressure on the nerves in the area. This procedure tends to increase spinal instability. • A spinal fusion may be needed to provide stabilization of the affected area of the spine. If both a decompressive laminectomy and spinal fusion are needed, then both procedures are done as part of the same surgery. To reduce your risk of getting spondylolysis: • Limit participation in certain sports to a reasonable amount. This will help prevent overuse injury. • Keep the abdominal and back muscles strong and the hamstring muscles supple • Use proper equipment for your sport. • Warm up properly before exercising or playing sports. • Learn proper techniques for exercise and athletic activities. • Seek medical care for chronic back pain. Early vertebral stress fractures, particularly in adolescents and young adults, may heal with rest.
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