What is a pars stress fracture?

Fracture of vertebra: The pars stress fracture (spondylolysis) usually occurs in the lower back (lumbar spine) and results from repetitive hyperextension (bending backwards) and rotation activities. This fracture is often considered an "overuse injury.".

Stress fx of back: A pars intra-articularis fracture (spondylolysis) involves most commonly the lower back (lumbar region). It can be present in approximately 20% of individuals as congenital condition (from birth). It may also happen as an overuse or traumtic injury. The mechanism of injury is hyper-extension of the back as occurs in gymnastic, offensive lineman, ice-skaters. Treatment is conservative.