MSK and sports case 1

Findings:

• STIR axial, sagittal and coronal images show edema in the left pars interarticularis at L3-L4 vertebral level.
• No cortical break, T1 hypointense line or spondylolysis.

Diagnosis:

Stress reaction (stress response) of pars interarticularis

Discussion:

• Stress reaction or stress response is an early form of stress injury which can progress to a stress fracture.
• Bowling action and overuse are risk factors in fast bowlers.
• Usually occurs in fast bowlers on the opposite side of their bowling arm