Reasons behind lower back stress fractures in young fast bowlers

Lower back stress fractures are increasingly prevalent among young fast bowlers, and as a physician who deals with sports injuries, I witness how these can impact a player's career. These injuries typically occur gradually over time and may lead to pain, stiffness, and inability to continue bowling. This is a basic explanation of why they occur and how they can be prevented.


What is a Stress Fracture?


A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone due to repeated stress or overuse. In bowlers, it most commonly occurs in an area of the lower spine known as the pars interarticularis, which connects bones in the back. This region experiences a lot of stress during the bowling action.


Reasons Behind Stress Factures

1. Repetitive Stress from Bowling

Fast bowling exerts a lot of stress on the spine. Each time the bowler lands and releases the ball, the lower back twists, bends, and absorbs impact. With repetition over time, this can cause micro-injuries to the bone. If the bowler is not given proper rest, the minute injuries develop into a stress fracture.


2. Growing Bodies Are More Vulnerable

Teenagers are still developing, and their bones are softer and more flexible. When a young bowler experiences a growth spurt, their bones and muscles might not develop at the same pace. This creates more difficulty for the spine to remain stable and also raises the risk of injury.


3. Improper Bowling Action

Some young bowlers employ what we refer to as a "mixed action" — when their shoulders and hips are not aligned correctly during the delivery. This will place additional twisting pressure on the spine. Many bowlers, without proper instruction, are unaware that they are bowling in this manner until they begin to experience pain.


4. Weak Core and Muscles

The muscles in the stomach, back, and hips support the spine during movement. If these muscles are weak or not trained properly, the spine has to handle more of the pressure. A strong core helps protect the back during fast bowling.


5. Too Much Bowling, Not Enough Rest

Bowing too many overs within a short period, particularly without rest days, is one of the main causes of stress fractures. Young bowlers tend to bowl in matches and practice without sufficient time to rest. The body requires rest to heal itself, and without this, minor injuries can accumulate into larger issues.


Stress fractures of the lower back in adolescent fast bowlers occur due to recurrent strain, increasing bodies, inappropriate technique, weakened muscles, and insufficient rest. Fortunately, if diagnosed early and treated properly - with rest, physio, and a gradual return to sport, most adolescent athletes recover fully.

(Dr. Praveen Tittal - Director - Orthopaedics at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram)