Dorsalgia, also known as back pain, is a condition that encompasses a wide range of discomfort or pain experienced in the back area. It can affect individuals of all ages and can be categorized as acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting more than three months). Dorsalgia can originate from various structures, including muscles, ligaments, bones, and intervertebral discs. There are six types of dorsalgia, categorized according to the specific section of the spine where the pain originates:

• Cervical dorsalgia
• Cervicothoracic dorsalgia
• Thoracic dorsalgia
• Lumbosacral dorsalgia
• Lumbar dorsalgia
• Sacroiliac dorsalgia

Dorsalgia often presents as localized pain or discomfort in the affected area. It can be a dull, achy, or sharp pain in the back, and the intensity may vary. Sometimes, dorsalgia leads to radiating upper and lower back pain that extends to other areas, such as the buttocks, hips, or legs. This is known as radicular pain and is often associated with nerve compression. Tightness, stiffness, or spasms in the upper or lower back muscles are frequent telltale signs of dorsalgia. These muscle issues can further contribute to pain and limited mobility. Individuals with dorsalgia may experience difficulty moving their backs or performing certain activities that require bending or twisting.

Dorsalgia can result from bulging or herniated discs, injury, overuse, and stress. Muscle strains, joint degeneration, and disc herniations that impinge a nearby nerve can all cause issues that may be classified as dorsalgia. Treatment of dorsalgia depends on the underlying cause and may involve physical therapy, at-home remedies, low doses of antidepressants, and directed rehabilitation. In some cases, surgery may be appropriate for people with severe myelopathy or cauda equina syndrome.