Pars interarticularis stress and disc degeneration in cricket's potent strike force: the fast bowler

Cricket fast bowlers are the potent strike force in a multidiscipline team. They subject their spines to repetitive sagittal plane and rotatory movements over many years. The effect of this repetitive stress has not previously been analysed. This study examined 20 former fast bowlers to determine the incidence of spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis and degenerative change. Fast bowlers are noted to have an increased incidence of spondylolysis. A mixed front/side bowling style involving more lumbar hyperextension or rotation has significant association with spondylolysis when compared with side-on bowling styles. There was a high incidence of radiological thoracolumbar degenerative facet joint and disc disease in former fast bowlers.