The Korean Journal of Sports Medicine  2017;35(3):198-201

doi:10.5763/kjsm.2017.35.3.198

Sequential Proximal Adjacent Spondylolysis by Pars Interarticularis Fracture in Elite Soccer Player.

Seung Kook KIM 1 ; Seung Woo PARK ; Su Chan LEE ; Moon Bok SONG

Affiliations

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Keywords

Athlete; Pars interarticularis; Spondylolysis; Stress fracture

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

English

Abstract

Pars interarticularis fracture is a common finding in young soccer players with low back pain. Spondylolysis in young adults involves a defect of the pars interarticularis, occurring as a result of repeated hyperextension and rotation. Here, we describe the case of a 26-year-old male elite soccer player who was diagnosed with L3 spondylolysis 2 years previously. He visited Incheon Himchan Hospital again because of low back pain. Radiographs showed consecutive spondylolysis at the L3 and L4 levels. Physicians should be aware that repeated performance of athletic movements, such as those during soccer, might lead to consecutive levels of spondylolysis.