What is it?
Repetitive loading can produce a stress injury or defect in the pars of a vertebra, often in active young people.
Symptoms and important signs
Local back pain, commonly aggravated by extension or sport.
How is it assessed?
Examination and targeted imaging; early X-rays may not show the lesion.
Care and treatment options
Modify provoking activity and use supervised rehabilitation; return to sport follows recovery, not a fixed deadline.
When to seek help
Neurological symptoms or persistent worsening pain need reassessment.