Could recurrent low-back pain in an adolescent athlete be spondylolysis?

Doctor’s answer

Spondylolysis is seen in sports that repeatedly extend and rotate the lower back, including gymnastics, diving, and football. Pain often worsens with back extension or after training. Early cases may improve with training modification, core rehabilitation, and a staged return to sport; persistent pain warrants imaging assessment.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.