Spondylolysis

Understanding Spondylolysis And The Treatments Available To You

Diagnosis and Treatments for Spondylolysis in Birmingham and Hoover, Alabama

Spondylolysis is a term that refers to a deformity of the vertebrae. A genetic condition or injury that loosens or fractures the vertebrae can cause it. It is most often found in the lumbar spine and often affects pediatric patients, especially young athletes. The medical professionals at Southlake Orthopaedics provide testing, diagnosis, and spondylolysis treatments for patients of all ages. Patients throughout central Alabama can receive care at locations in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview.

Spondylolysis Symptoms

Many patients with spondylolysis do not experience symptoms, and this can make it hard to diagnose and treat. Sometimes the condition is not recognized until medical imaging identifies it. This may be partially attributable to the strength, flexibility, and youth of many patients affected by stress fractures, as well as their very active lifestyle. But when fractured vertebrae go untreated, they can shift out of place. The resulting condition is called spondylolisthesis, or cervical spondylolysis, and can cause serious nerve pain.

Symptoms related to these injuries of the spine, both and spondylolisthesis, include:

Low back pain
Pain radiating through buttocks and thighs
Stiffness in the lower back
Thigh and hamstring tightness
Problems with walking and standing
Muscle weakness
Spasms
Bladder or bowel incontinence
Changes to gait
Limitations to range of motion

If adult or pediatric patients experience any of these symptoms, the team of board-certified physicians and specialist staff can help find the problem. Early diagnosis of these conditions can provide more options for effective spondylolysis treatment.

Spondylolysis Causes

These conditions usually occur in adolescent athletes. Participation in sports often includes stretching of the lumbar spine, and if overstretching occurs, this can cause damage. Repeated pressure on the bone, which causes stress fractures, can also be a cause of spondylolysis. Discussions with coaches, as well as young athletes, should include information about how to protect muscles, joints, and the spine, as well as how to advance athletic performance. Almost any sport or training program can be the source of injury, including:

Track, field, and cross-country
Football, soccer, and rugby
Gymnastics
Weight lifting
Wrestling
Hockey
Lacrosse
Basketball
Cheer squads
Baseball and softball
Marching band
Diving

Another cause of spondylolysis can be genetics. Patients with thin or thinning vertebras may be more susceptible to developing weakness in the spine that can result in fractures and slipping. Down syndrome and spina bifida are also associated with an increase in the occurrence of spondylolysis. In addition, there is some correlation with a family history of similar spinal injuries and painful symptoms.

Spondylolysis Treatments

Most likely the first treatment for spondylolysis is rest. Often the young athlete is advised to take some time off of training or competition to allow the reduction of pain and inflammation. The fracture has more likely a chance to heal with rest, as well. In addition, anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to help manage pain and swelling. And some cases may require the patient to wear a brace for a certain amount of time.

A course of physical therapy and rehabilitation may also be prescribed. These specialists can analyze movements and help modify those used in sports activities. In addition, they can provide medical supervision for stretching and strengthening surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments, so that the vertebrae are better supported. This type of treatment often results in an eventual home exercise program to help prevent further damage.

If the condition worsens or causes too much pain, surgery may be considered. Spinal fusion surgery is the most commonly prescribed. This procedure fuses the vertebrae to prevent slipping and utilizes bone grafts and hardware to provide stability. If pressure has been placed on nerves due to the condition or injury, a surgical procedure to relieve the pressure may also be recommended.

For younger athletes and active people with less severe cases of spondylolysis, direct pars repair may be recommended. This surgery allows patients to retain more functionality by preserving the range of motion in the spine. The technique used for direct pars repair is called fixation, where orthopedic surgeons use different implants to stabilize fractured bones, including plates, screws, nails, rods, and wires.

Why Choose Southlake Orthopaedics for Spondylolysis Treatments and Services

Southlake Orthopaedics wants all patients to have less pain and more living. These conditions can affect patients of all ages, and a multi-specialty practice is ideal for identifying the spondylolysis treatment required for a positive outcome.

Under physician supervision, the in-house physical therapy department can help patients get back out on the field. And if surgery is recommended, experienced orthopedic surgeons will explain every detail of the procedure and answer all questions.

Find Relief from Spondylolysis Pain at Southlake Orthopaedics

Patients or parents of young athletes experiencing symptoms of spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis should consider an examination with a qualified orthopedic physician. With two convenient office locations, in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview, Southlake Orthopaedics serves patients throughout central Alabama. Contact the office today.

Spondylolysis

Understanding Spondylolysis And The Treatments Available To You

Diagnosis and Treatments for Spondylolysis in Birmingham and Hoover, Alabama

Spondylolysis Symptoms

Spondylolysis Causes

Spondylolysis Treatments

Why Choose Southlake Orthopaedics for Spondylolysis Treatments and Services

Find Relief from Spondylolysis Pain at Southlake Orthopaedics

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