Spondylolysis is caused by a fracture or loss of the posterior joint connecting one vertebral bone to another. This is the most common cause of low back pain in adolescent athletes that can be seen on X-rays. This stress fracture in one of the bones (vertebrae) that make up the spinal column usually affects the fifth lumbar vertebra in the lower back and, much less commonly, the fourth lumbar vertebra. If the stress fracture weakens the bone so much that it is unable to maintain its proper position, the vertebra can start to shift out of place. This condition is called spondylolisthesis. If too much slippage occurs, the bones may begin to press on nerves and surgery may be necessary to correct the condition. There may be a hereditary aspect to spondylolysis. An individual may be born with a thin vertebral bone and therefore may be vulnerable to this condition. Significant periods of rapid growth may encourage slippage. In many people, spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis are present, but without any obvious symptoms. Pain usually spreads across the lower back and may feel like a muscle strain. Spondylolisthesis can cause spasms that stiffen the back and tighten the hamstring muscles, resulting in changes to posture and gait. If the slippage is significant, it may begin to compress the nerves and narrow the spinal canal. In most cases, strengthening and stretching of the back and abdominal muscles along with physical therapy and a back brace can help to prevent future occurrences of this painful condition.

The Vertebra is crushed and collapses from excessive pressure or trauma. Most healthy bones are able to withstand pressure and the spine is able to absorb the shock of trauma. However, if the force is too strong or the spine is very weak, a vertebra may fracture. Compression fractures are likely when the spine is bent forward at the same time there is downward pressure on impact such as a car accident or falling to the floor in a various positions. Osteoporosis is often the underlying cause of compression fractures. Osteoporosis is usually caused by the aging process, which weakens and thins bones because of the loss of calcium and nutrients. When the vertebra becomes too weak to withstand normal pressure, additional pressure and trauma may cause it to collapse. Symptoms can include severe pain in the back and legs. It can also cause numbness and weakness.

Degenerative Disc Disease is the degeneration, advanced aging or breaking down of an intervertebral disc of the spine. Findings show the narrowing of disc space between the vertebrae from the loss of fluid in the discs. It reduces flexibility and further reduces the ability for the discs to act as shock absorbers. DDD may lead to a wide range of spinal diseases and injuries.

Often called back spasm, spinal muscle spasms are spontaneous contractions of the muscles leading to back pain or sometimes the ability to move. It can be attributed to overuse or an injury and the onset is more common for those who have experienced it. Generally, spasms are preceded by small strains leading to inflammation. Conditions such as degenerative disc disease and herniated disc may compress a nerve root causing irritation. The body attempts to immobilize the area to stop pain by tightening and contracting the muscles. Preventions include stretching, PT and exercise to strengthen the lower back muscles.

Sciatica is a symptom and not a diagnosis for a spinal injury. It is commonly associated with the above diagnoses. Pain is caused by a general compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. Symptoms include lower back pain, buttock pain, numbness, a burning sensation, pain and weakness in the leg or foot. It can include “pins and needles” sensation or tingling in the leg. Specific sciatica symptoms can be different in location and severity. Treatment is focused on the underlying causes of symptoms.

The knee is the largest and strongest joint in the body. It is made up of the femur/thighbone, the tibia/shinbone and the patella/ kneecap. Articular cartilage covers the ends of the three bones where they touch and it is a smooth, slippery cushioning substance that protects the joint as you bend and straighten the knee. Osteoarthritis is the condition in which the cartilage between the knee joints wears away. The femur and tibia bones rub more closely against one another causing pain, swelling, stiffness and limited mobility. The formation of bone spurs is also common. The chance of developing osteoarthritis rises after the age of 45 and its most common in women. The most common cause of OA of the knee is age. Other causes are weight gain, heredity, gender, repetitive stress injuries, athletics and other illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis. Treatments include weight loss, exercise, medication, injections, PT and surgery. Bracing is used to help prevent less contact between the bones and helps increase mobility.