Important Announcements

Nondiscrimination Statement Update

Boston Medical Center Health System complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency and primary language), religion, culture, physical or mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression. BMCHS provides free aids and services to people with disabilities and free language services to people whose primary language is not English.

To see our full nondiscrimination statement, click here.

Campus Construction Update

Starting September 14, we’re closing the Menino building lobby entrance. This, along with the ongoing Yawkey building entrance closure, will help us bring you an even better campus experience that matches the exceptional care you've come to expect. Please enter the Menino and Yawkey buildings through the Moakley building, and make sure to leave extra time to get to your appointment. Thank you for your patience. 

Click here to learn more about our campus redesign. 

Spondylolysis


Spondylolysis is a type of stress fracture in the lumbar vertebrae. It may also be called a pars defect, since it happens in a part of the lumbar spine called the pars interarticularis. The most common cause of spondylolysis is repetitive stress.

Some people with spondylolysis don't have any symptoms. Others may have back pain that gets worse with activity and when bending backwards.

One out of every 20 people is thought to have spondylolysis. While simply walking upright is the biggest risk factor, sports like gymnastics, football, and soccer can increase the risk.

Treatment includes:

  • Rest
  • Physical therapy
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen
  • A brace

Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

department

Neurosurgery

We provide comprehensive surgical treatment of the spine for trauma, degenerative conditions, congenital problems, and more. Our surgeons are experts in less invasive surgical tec…
Neurosurgery
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Spine Surgery

BMC’s spine surgery program provides all that and more, with spine surgeons who have developed and perfected new techniques and have cared for all spinal problems, including the m…
Spine Surgery
department

Spine Surgery

We provide comprehensive surgical treatment for all spine-related conditions, including less invasive surgical techniques that lead to faster recovery times and reduced pain.
Spine Surgery
department

Orthopedic Surgery

The Department of Orthopedic Surgery offers orthopedic services from head to toe for acute injuries, as well as chronic conditions of the musculoskeletal system, to help you get b…
Orthopedic Surgery