Spondylolysis in Tennis: Symptoms, Treatment & Safe Return to Play
Quick Overview
Spondylolysis is a stress injury or fracture of a small part of a vertebra called the pars interarticularis. It most commonly affects the lower lumbar spine, particularly L5.
For tennis players, spondylolysis is important because the sport repeatedly combines lumbar extension, rotation, and high-speed force production.
The tennis serve and overhead motion can place significant repetitive stress through the lower back. This is especially important in junior players whose bones are still developing.