Back Pain (Dorsalgia): Complete Medical Guide

Physiotherapy plays a central role in the assessment, management, and rehabilitation of back pain (dorsalgia).
This condition affects the spinal column, intervertebral discs, spinal nerves, ligaments, and muscles.

1. Anatomy & Classification of Back Pain

Understanding the Spinal Column

The vertebral column supports the body and consists of 33 vertebrae, discs, ligaments, joints, and nerves.

Cervical Spine (C1–C7): Neck and head movement
Thoracic Spine (T1–T12): Rib cage and breathing
Lumbar Spine (L1–L5): Weight-bearing
Sacrum: Pelvic stability
Coccyx: Ligament attachments

Lumbar Spine (Lower Back)

L4-L5 and L5-S1 are the most common pain areas due to high stress.

Disc herniation
Degenerative disc disease
Facet joint issues
Sciatic nerve compression

Thoracic Spine

Postural kyphosis
Rib joint restriction
Costochondral inflammation

Muscles Involved

Trapezius
Latissimus Dorsi
Erector Spinae

2. Types of Back Pain

Acute vs Chronic

Acute: Less than 6 weeks
Chronic: More than 3 months

Mechanical Pain

Worsens with movement
Improves with rest

Inflammatory Pain

Worse at night
Morning stiffness

Nerve Pain (Sciatica)

Burning sensation
Electric shock pain
Radiating to legs

3. Symptom Profiling

Lower Back Pain

Pain on one side
Stiffness when sitting

Radiating Pain

Pain in buttocks and legs
Numbness or tingling

Common Sensations

Burning pain
Throbbing while sitting
Pressure feeling

4. Upper & Middle Back Pain

Interscapular Pain

Shoulder blade pain
Muscle tightness

Rib Pain

Pain while breathing
Intercostal strain

5. Head & Neck Connection

Headaches from neck
Neck stiffness
Pain behind ears

6. Internal Causes

Kidney Pain

Fever
Urinary symptoms

Digestive Causes

Acid reflux
Pancreatitis
Gallbladder pain

7. Women’s Health

Pregnancy back pain
Menstrual pain

8. Men’s Health

Pelvic floor tension
Prostate-related pain

9. Treatment

Home Remedies

Heat therapy
Proper sleeping posture

Exercises

McKenzie exercises
Cat-Cow stretch
Child’s Pose

Medical Treatment

Paracetamol
Ibuprofen
Muscle relaxants

Emergency Signs

Loss of bladder control
Severe weakness

10. Prevention

Use medium-firm mattress
Maintain posture
Ergonomic workspace

FAQs

What foods help?

Omega-3, leafy greens, turmeric, magnesium.

Can weight cause pain?

Yes, it increases spinal pressure.

When to see a doctor?

If pain lasts more than 6 weeks or worsens.

Can physiotherapy fix back pain?

Yes, by addressing root causes and improving posture.

Back Pain (Dorsalgia): The Complete Medical Guide to Causes, Diagnosis, and Rehabilitation