BOWLERS BACK : UNDERSTANDING LUMBAR STRESS FRACTURES IN FAST BOWLERS

Fast bowling is one of the most physically demanding roles in cricket, with the lower back enduring significant stress due to repeated high-impact movements. One of the most common injuries among fast bowlers is a lumbar stress fracture, which occurs due to excessive extension and rotation of the spine.

Causes & Risk Factors

The primary cause of lumbar stress fractures is repetitive strain from the bowling action. Poor biomechanics, such as a mixed bowling action, significantly increase the risk. Additionally, high bowling workloads, weak core muscles, and rapid growth phases in young bowlers make them more susceptible. Fatigue and inadequate recovery further elevate the risk.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Bowlers with this injury often experience persistent lower back pain, which worsens with bowling and eases with rest. Stiffness and reduced mobility may also be present. Diagnosis is confirmed through MRI or CT scans after a physiotherapy assessment.

Prevention & Management

Prevention involves maintaining a strong core, proper workload management, and optimizing bowling technique to reduce spinal stress. Bowlers should avoid excessive overs and ensure adequate rest. Once diagnosed, treatment includes rest, physiotherapy, and gradual return to bowling under professional guidance.

Lumbar stress fractures are a serious concern for fast bowlers but can be managed effectively with proper training and workload monitoring. Bowlers experiencing persistent back pain should seek early assessment to prevent long-term issues and ensure longevity in the game.

References

1.Lumbar vertebral stress injuries in fast bowlers: prevalence and risk factors https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22261431/

2. Radiological healing of lumbar spine stress fractures in elite cricket fast bowlers https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32680702/

3. A study of lumbar stress fracture in elite cricket fast bowlers https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36064501/

4. Management of lumbar bone stress injury in cricket fast bowlers and MRI as a monitoring tool https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38249766/

5. Pars interarticularis stress lesions in the lumbar spine of cricket fast bowlers https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17218880/

6. Lumbar bone stress injuries and risk factors in adolescent cricket fast bowlers https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35635278/

7. Incidence and prevalence of lumbar stress fractures in English County Cricket fast bowlers https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31205746/

8. MRI bone marrow oedema precedes lumbar bone stress injury in junior cricket fast bowlers https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30425044/

9. Injuries to the lower back in elite fast bowlers: MRI stress changes predict stress fracture https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21119172/