Pars Defects vs Herniated Discs: Why Treatment Is Different on Sydney’s Northern Beaches

Back Pain Isn’t Always the Same

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people book physiotherapy on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. At our Freshwater clinic, we often see patients with two very different conditions that can feel quite similar at first: pars defects and herniated discs.

Although they may share overlapping symptoms, they are not the same injury. More importantly, they need completely different treatment approaches. Understanding the difference is essential if you want long-term recovery and to get back to doing what you love.

What Is a Pars Defect?

A pars defect, also known as spondylolysis, is a stress fracture in a small part of the spine called the pars interarticularis. It often develops from repetitive extension and rotation of the lower back.

Who’s at risk locally?

We commonly see pars defects in young athletes from Freshwater, Manly, and Curl Curl who are involved in:

• Surf Life Saving (Clubbies / Surf Club)

• Ironman / Ironwomen

• Surfing

• Cricket (fast bowlers)

• Gymnastics

• Rugby AFL

• People who drive / driving

• Tradies and repetitive lifting

Typical symptoms include:

• Localised pain in the lower back

• Pain worse with extension (arching backwards)

• Stiffness after sport or high-impact activity

What Is a Herniated / Bulging Disc?

A herniated disc happens when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through its outer shell. This can press on nearby nerves, leading to irritation and radiating pain.

Who’s at risk locally?

Disc herniations are more common in adults aged 25–55. On the Northern Beaches, we often see:

• Office workers commuting into Sydney (long hours of sitting)

• Gym-goers lifting heavy weights

• Parents managing repetitive lifting and bending at home

Typical symptoms include:

• Sharp, shooting pain down the leg (sciatica)

• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs

• Pain worse with sitting or bending forward

Why Pars Defects and Disc Herniations Are Not Treated the Same

Although they may both cause back pain, they heal and respond to treatment very differently:

• Pars defects need stability. Because this is a bone stress injury, management focuses on reducing extension-based stress, allowing bone healing, and building core/hip strength.

• Herniated discs need decompression. Physiotherapy here aims to reduce nerve irritation, improve spinal mobility, and gradually reload the disc.

Treating a pars defect like a herniated disc (or vice versa) can delay healing — or even make symptoms worse.

How Physiotherapy Helps With Pars Defects

At Perfectly Human Physiotherapy in Freshwater, we take a holistic approach to treating pars defects. This often includes:

• Activity modification to reduce extension-based load

• Core and glute activation to support spinal stability

• Movement retraining to improve sport-specific patterns (surfing, cricket, running)

• Gradual return-to-sport progression so athletes can get back to competition safely

Because we work inside Pure Whole Health., we’re uniquely positioned to combine clinic-based rehab with functional gym and movement retraining — something many clinics can’t offer

FAQs About Pars Defects and Herniated Discs

Can a pars defect heal without surgery?

Yes. Most pars defects respond well to physiotherapy, activity modification, and a structured rehab program.

Is a pars defect the same as spondylolysis?

Yes — they’re different terms for the same condition.

Do all herniated discs need surgery?

No. The majority of disc herniations improve with physiotherapy and lifestyle modification. Surgery is usually only considered if symptoms are severe or persistent.

How do I know if my back pain is a disc or a pars defect?

Pars defects usually cause localised pain with extension, while herniated discs often cause leg symptoms and pain with sitting or bending forward. A physiotherapist can help confirm the diagnosis through assessment and imaging referral if needed.

Tailored Care in Freshwater

Pars defects and herniated discs may look similar at first glance, but they’re very different conditions. One requires stability, the other requires decompression.

At Perfectly Human Physiotherapy in Freshwater, we provide accurate assessment, personalised rehab plans, and holistic support so you can recover properly and return to sport, surf, or daily life stronger than before.