The spine is among the most critical body organs that provide support and allow movement of the musculoskeletal system. Spine injuries are usually risky and a significant cause of disabilities among individuals. Most injuries occur due to motor vehicle accidents, falls, health conditions, among others. Living with a spinal injury or disorder can be miserable, affecting your life quality. Professional medical help can promote your healing and better your living. The Center for the Functional Restoration of the Spine provides effective diagnoses and treatments for spine injuries at their locations in New Jersey. The Shrewsbury spondylosis specialists offer expert care to bring back your health and enhance your daily life. Call or book online to schedule your appointment.
The practice has its offices in Shrewsbury, Toms River, and Edison. Led by Steve Paragioudakis, MD, and Marc Menkowitz, MD, both orthopedic spine specialists, they focus on providing the best care to their patients for improved results. With their highly skilled team, they provide adequate help for various spine injuries and disorders. The highly experienced spine surgeons offer comprehensive care for spondylolysis to relieve your symptoms and restore your life. Visit them today for all your spine health problems.
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What is spondylolysis?
It is a painful spine condition involving a stress fracture in the posterior of the spine known as the pars interarticularis. The bone connects the upper and lower segments of the facet joints.
Spondylolysis comes from spondylosis, meaning spine or vertebrae, and lysis indicating a break or loosening.
The condition causes lower back pain, especially to athletes who place a lot of stress on the lower back or lead to overstretching. Also, spondylolysis is more common in males than females. It is rare for patients under five years but can occur to patients over the age of seven. It is among the most common causes of back pain in children and adults. The disorder can happen even when you don’t have a history of injury or participate in sports.
There is no known exact cause of spondylolysis. However, some theories associate it with genetics, repetitive trauma of the lower back, and lumbar disc degeneration conditions.
What are the symptoms of spondylolysis?
Some people may not experience any symptoms of this condition. Common signs include:
- Pain that spreads across the lower back
- Hyperlordosis of the lower back
- Tightening of the hamstring muscles
- Neurogenic or radiating pain
- Pain worsening during physical activity
What are the diagnosis methods?|
To determine the cause of your spondylolysis, your provider performs a physical exam and diagnostic tests such as X-ray, MRI, bone scan, CAT scan, among others. A pars defect confirms the diagnosis.
What are the treatment options for spondylolysis?
Your provider develops personalized treatment plans according to your diagnosis results. Most care providers consider non-surgical treatment first, such as:
- physical therapy
- epidural injections
- bracing
- medication
In severe spondylolysis cases, surgical procedures are recommendable, including:
- spinal decompression
- spinal fusion
The surgical procedures occur together, intending to minimize irritation and inflammation. However, the operations’ benefits bring some risks, which you should consider before deciding on the surgery treatment.
In conclusion, spondylolysis is a stress fracture of the posterior elements of the spine. It causes lower back pain, which may interfere with your routine. The Center for the Functional Restoration of the Spine offers effective treatments of spondylolysis with excellent results. Visit them today to improve your life quality.