What causes vertebrae to stick out in 13-year-old after karting incident?

Hello, Since two weeks I noticed that two vertebrae on the lower back of my daughter are like “sticking out”. It was not like this before, so I am concerned what might have caused it. I noticed it because two weeks ago she complained of a mild pain (rather discomfort) in that area after she came back from karting. I thought it was from a hit in the car or it was from the belt or something that was pressing her at that spot. But 2 days later I noticed that the vertebrae in the affected area was somehow enlarged. 2 days later the vertebrae next to it stuck out, too. Currently, they both stick out and have remained like this since. They are hard on touching (like a normal vertebrae). There is no pain however. What could have caused this? What kind of specialist do we need and how urgent that might be? Can she safely do sports (at school and she also plays volleyball and dances)? My daughter is 13 years old. Many thanks, Anna

3 specialists answered

  • I do not see what it can be. Your daughter should be seen by a paediatric othopedist

    Michel Pletincx

    Pediatrician | Braine-L'Alleud

  • Hello,
    I think you should go to emergency in order to get a quick answer for her problem. From there they can guide you to the proper specialist which can be a neurosurgeon or an orthopaedic surgeon specialised in back problems.

    Sincerely Yours,
    Dr De Keyzer

    Laura De Keyzer

    New Partner |

    Pediatrician | Forest

  • Hello
    I wouldn't let her do any physical effort before she has been seen by a physician and do an X-Ray
    Best regards

    Dominique Biarent

    New Partner |

    Pediatrician | Uccle

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