A 30-year-old male asked:
What is the basic meaning when mri shows bilateral l5 pars interarticularis defects without subluxation? this incurred after a multiple car accident.
3 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Warren Wolfeanswered
Family Medicine 60 years experience
Low back pain: Subluxation means partial dislocation of a bone, something luckily you do not have although you appear to have some damage to the L-5 spinal; bone but no fracture. Continue to see your orthopedic surgeon and/or family physician for followup for pain relief and physiotherapy
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Gregory Woodsanswered
Orthopedic Surgery 40 years experience
Don't worry too much: Pars defects are not uncommon and can be developmental and also traumatic. If the MRI was done within 6 weeks of the accident the MRI might show edema and findings of an acute pars defect. When there is no subluxation (slippage) then you are less likely to get symptoms. Back and abdominal strengthening exercises are helpful as well as intermittent use OTC NSAIDS would be helpful.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Adam Smithanswered
Internal Medicine 19 years experience
Spondylolysis: Spondylosysis, or pars interarticularis defect, is essentially a stress fracture of the narrow bridge of bone between vertebral body and the spinous process of the vertebrae. This is not an uncommon condition following repetitive trauma (seen also in gymnasts and football players). Subluxation occurs if the fracture separates from normal position and becomes displaced.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Mar 2, 2018
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.