Learning Objectives:

Describe the risk factors that can contribute to early-onset degenerative arthritis in the lumbar region for a young athlete. Differentiate between degenerative arthritis in the lumbar region and other causes that are common for lower back pain by using family and clinical history, images, and findings from an exam. Justify referral indications, especially if needing other interventions such as surgery or injections.

Keywords: early onset OA; facet joint pathology; conservative management