

209. How to Rehab a Spondy w/ Rayce Houser and Joey Scambia
12 snips Jul 15, 2025
Join sports physical therapist Joey Scambia and physical therapist Rayce Houser as they explore athletic low back pain, particularly spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. They discuss the importance of accurate diagnosis, rehabilitation strategies, and common mistakes to avoid. Learn about innovative rehab techniques, the role of imaging, and the need for individualized plans tailored to athletes. Their insights on adapting exercises for limited clinical spaces and the significance of clinician support provide practical advice for anyone dealing with these injuries.
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Gap in Athletic Low Back Pain Research
- Most literature on athletic low back pain lacks consensus on return to sport criteria and long-term outcomes are poor.
- A structured test battery combining research and clinical insight is needed to optimize rehabilitation and reduce recurrence.
Understanding Spondylolysis Types
- Spondylolysis refers to a stress fracture in the pars interarticularis with varying degrees of bone marrow edema or fracture presence.
- Imaging classification grades and anatomical zones help assess risk and guide rehab intensity.
Asymptomatic Bone Stress Findings
- Bone stress changes on MRI can exist in many asymptomatic athletes, showing bone marrow edema without symptoms.
- Presence of edema is a risk indicator but does not guarantee progression to symptomatic injury.