Dorsalgia refers to back pain. This common condition affects many people, impacting their daily lives. It can stem from various sources within the spinal column and is a frequent reason individuals seek medical attention.
Understanding Dorsalgia
Dorsalgia refers to pain originating from the spinal column. While it can broadly refer to pain anywhere along the back, it often specifically describes discomfort in the thoracic spine, the middle and upper back region between the shoulder blades and ribs, including the thoracic vertebrae, muscles, ligaments, and intervertebral discs.
Dorsalgia is categorized by its duration. Acute dorsalgia is sudden, intense pain lasting less than six weeks or up to three months, often following an injury. Chronic dorsalgia describes persistent back pain continuing for longer than three months, with varying intensity. Differentiating these types helps guide diagnosis and treatment.
Common Causes of Dorsalgia
Dorsalgia can stem from several factors. Poor posture and ergonomics, such as improper alignment or prolonged sitting, strain back muscles and the spine. Muscle strains or sprains are common, often from overexertion, improper lifting, or sudden movements. Injuries from accidents or falls can also lead to acute back pain.
Degenerative changes within the spine frequently cause dorsalgia. These include osteoarthritis, involving cartilage breakdown in spinal joints, and degenerative disc disease, where intervertebral discs lose cushioning. Bulging or herniated discs can also compress nerves, leading to pain. A sedentary lifestyle weakens back muscles and increases pain susceptibility. Psychological stress can also lead to muscle tension and contribute to back pain.
Recognizing Dorsalgia Symptoms
Dorsalgia symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause. Pain can be dull, aching, or pressing, or sharp and throbbing. It is often localized in the thoracic spine, frequently felt between the shoulder blades, but can also radiate across the chest or to other areas like the buttocks or legs if nerves are affected.
Accompanying the pain, individuals often report stiffness or tightness in the affected area, making movements difficult. Muscle tenderness or spasms are common. The range of motion in the back may become limited, affecting actions like bending or twisting. If nerve compression is present, symptoms such as numbness or tingling sensations in the extremities might also be experienced. Pain may also worsen with breathing or coughing.
Managing Dorsalgia
Managing dorsalgia typically begins with conservative approaches. Initial steps often include rest, though prolonged bed rest should be avoided to prevent muscle weakening. Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen, are commonly used for temporary relief.
Gentle stretching and light exercises are important for improving flexibility, strengthening supporting muscles, and correcting postural imbalances. Physical therapy is often a first-line professional treatment, involving tailored exercise programs, manual therapy, and guidance on proper posture and movement. Other professional interventions that may be considered include massage therapy, chiropractic care, and dry needling. For severe or persistent cases, more invasive treatments like injections or, as a last resort, surgery, might be discussed.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seek medical attention for dorsalgia if symptoms are severe or do not improve with self-care. If back pain persists for more than a few weeks, consult a healthcare professional. Immediate medical attention is necessary if the pain began after a significant injury, such as a car accident or fall.
Other concerning symptoms warranting prompt medical evaluation include pain with numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or arms. Loss of bladder or bowel control is a serious “red flag” symptom requiring urgent care. Back pain with fever, unexplained weight loss, or pain that worsens at night or does not subside with rest, should be evaluated to rule out more serious conditions.