Pars Fracture

The fracture of the pars interarticularis, also known as a pars fracture or spondylolysis, is a common spine injury that is often caused by overuse – particularly in young athletes. The pars interarticularis is a part of the vertebra that is located between the articular processes of the facet joint, which connect adjacent vertebrae and stabilize the spine. A pars fracture is normally a stress fracture that develops as a result of overexertion, repetitive motions, and frequent bending. This condition is usually indicated by chronic back pain and is extremely common in the lumbar spine in the lower back.  

Spine Injury

Unlike many degenerative spine conditions, like a herniated disc, osteoarthritis, or the development of bone spurs, a pars fracture is most commonly exhibited in younger patients. This is because this fracture is often caused by playing sports that require a lot of throwing, spine rotation, bending, and physical activity. These repetitive movements place additional pressure on the spine and can eventually develop into a stress fracture. Interestingly, the condition is usually experienced on the side of the spinal column opposite of the aggravating activity, which is to say if a person bowls with their left hand, the fracture develops on the right side of their vertebra.

A pars fracture can result in a variety of symptoms, including:

• Pain at the fracture
• Chronic lower back or neck pain
• Pain caused by a specific activity
• Tight muscles
• Soreness or muscle weakness

Finding the Right Treatment

Treatment of a pars fracture is usually extremely effective; however, it is important to identify the condition early before further damage and spondylolisthesis (the misalignment of the vertebrae) can occur. In most cases, rest, physical therapy, pain medication, and stretching exercises are sufficient and allow the bone to heal itself.

If you suffer from chronic back or neck pain and believe that a pars fracture is to blame, visit your doctor for an X-ray and to learn about your various treatment options. Occasionally pars fracture surgery may be required, but this is usually reserved for patients with debilitating symptoms that have not responded to all other treatments.