Sacral Stress Fracture

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(Spondylolysis of the Sacrum; Fracture, Sacral Stress)

Definition

A sacral stress fracture is a small break in the sacrum. The sacrum is a large triangular bone. It is the base of the spine and connects to the pelvis. Spondylolysis fracture specifically affects the back thinner side of the bone.

Stress fractures are caused by repeated physical stress or conditions that make the bones weaker. Sacral stress fractures are most common in young athletes and older women with osteoporosis . If you have unexplained lower back pain, talk to your doctor. Prompt treatment can prevent the injury from further problems.

Sacrum

Causes

Sacral stress fractures can be caused by repetitive stress or weakened bones. Factors that can contribute to this type of fracture include:

Vigorous physical activities
Repeated physical stress, especially involving back movements
Conditions that affect bone density

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of sacral stress fractures. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

Long-distance runner
Certain sports: gymnastics, football, track and field, and other high-impact sports
Recent change in physical routine, particularly more intensive workout
Weight-bearing activities: weight lifting, military training
History of osteoporosis
Diagnosis of low bone mineral density—low bone density indicates more bone loss than bone growth
Radiation therapy
History of Paget’s disease , hyperparathyroidism , osteopenia, or rheumatoid arthritis
Female athlete who has missed periods
Adolescents with incomplete bone growth

Symptoms

The most common symptom of a sacral stress fracture is low back pain. If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to a sacral stress fracture. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:

Severe pain to lower back, hip, or pelvis
Pain to buttocks or groin
Increase in pain during your workout
Lower back tenderness when touched
Swelling at lower back

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Sometimes blood tests will be taken. You may be referred to a spine specialist or a surgeon who specializes in bone problems.

Tests may include the following:

X-ray of your lower back—test that uses radiation to take a picture; used to view any small cracks in the sacral bone

If the x-ray images are not definitive, you may have:

CT scan of your lower back—type of x-ray that uses a computer to create more detailed images
MRI scan of your lower back—a test that uses magnetic waves to show swelling and inflammation inside the bone
Bone scan —test that determines mineralization of bone

Treatment

In general, treatment depends on the cause and severity. These fractures are often treated with rest and medications for pain. Minimally invasive procedures are sometimes used. Surgery may be needed. In this case a pin may be inserted into the bone. This will strengthen it and allow it to heal. Treatment options include the following:

Rehabilitation

Your plan will depend upon what caused the fracture. Fractures caused by physical stress need rest. Return to full activity and weight bearing is gradual. Fractures due to osteoporosis are treated with partial weight bearing. A cane or other device will be used for this. Therapy in the pool may also be advised. Your doctor may also offer physical therapy to help you strengthen your muscles.

Gentle massage , heat, and transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS) may also be used to relieve pain.

Medications

Depending upon your underlying condition, your doctor may prescribe:

Daily calcium and vitamin D for bone health
A hormone medication like calcitonin to increase bone mass
A narcotic or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve pain

Immobilization

In some cases your doctor may choose to immobilize your injury. A corset or brace can provide support and relief.

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of getting sacral stress fractures, take the following steps:

Carefully plan your exercise routine. Make gradual changes in intensity.
Practice good nutrition for bone health. This includes adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D.
Use proper equipment when exercising including supportive footwear .
Talk to your doctor about how to prevent osteoporosis.

RESOURCES

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://www.aaos.org/

American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine http://www.aossm.org/

CANADIAN RESOURCES

Canadian Orthopaedic Association http://www.coa-aco.org/

Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org/

References

Hosey RG, et al . Evaluation and Management of Stress Fractures of the Pelvis and Sacrum. Orthopedics . 2008; 31:383.

Lin JT, Lane JM. Sacral stress fractures. Journal of Women’s Health . 2003;12(9):879-888.

Low back pain fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/backpain/detail%5Fbackpain.htm . Accessed October 23, 2008.

Micheli LJ, Curtis C. Stress Fractures in the Spine and Sacrum. Clinics in Sports Medicine . Jan 2006;25(1).

Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00053 . Accessed October 23, 2008.

Stress fractures. MayoClinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/stress-fractures/DS00556/DSECTION=all&METHOD=print . Accessed October 23, 2008.

Zaman FM. Sacral stress fractures. Curr Sports Med Rep . 2006;5(1):37-43.

Revision Information

Reviewer: John C. Keel, MD
Review Date: 09/2012 -
Update Date: 00/92/2012 -

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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