Dorsalgia

What is dorsalgia?

Dorsalgia is pain in the back. This term refers to any type of pain that occurs in the back, neck, shoulders, and lower back.  Dorsalgia can occur at any age in an acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term, lasting more than 12 weeks) form.

What types of dorsalgia are there?

There are several different types of dorsalgia:

• Cervical dorsalgia — affects the neck, i.e., the cervical spine.
• Cervicothoracic dorsalgia — affects the neck and middle back.
• Thoracic dorsalgia — a relatively rare type affecting the thoracic spine — the middle of the back.
• Thoracolumbar dorsalgia — occurs in the middle of the back and the lumbar region.
• Lumbar dorsalgia — affects the lumbar region and is one of the most common conditions.
• Lumbosacral dorsalgia — occurs in the area adjacent to the lower back and sacrum.

What causes dorsalgia?

Dorsalgia can be caused by a variety of different factors that require different approaches and treatments. The most common causes of dorsalgia are:

• Herniated disc;
• Degenerative disorders of the intervertebral discs;
• Muscle tension;
• Osteoarthritis;
• Various types of injuries, such as sports injuries, car accidents, falls, etc.
• Physical overload and heavy labor;
• Improper lifting technique;
• Poor posture and ergonomics;
• Lack of physical activity;
• Other factors such as obesity, stress, smoking.

What are the symptoms of dorsalgia?
Dorsalgia manifests itself as a complex of symptoms of pain and discomfort in the back. The sensation of pain and discomfort can be mild and intermittent or severe and prolonged. The following symptoms may be observed with dorsalgia:

• Sharp or dull pain in a specific area, which may worsen with movement, prolonged sitting, or standing.
• A burning, tingling, or tight feeling in the spine area.
• Difficulty moving.
• Numbness.
• Pain that radiates (spreads) to other parts of the body (e.g., limbs).
• Muscle pain;
• Internal organ disorders, such as gastrointestinal diseases, kidney disorders, etc.
• Compensatory posture — an excessively bent, twisted, or, conversely, straightened posture to prevent pain, which prevents natural movement of the spine.

How is dorsalgia diagnosed?

The diagnosis of dorsalgia always requires an individual approach, as the pain can be caused by various reasons. A correct diagnosis is extremely important for determining the exact etiology of the pain and planning appropriate treatment.

In the first stage of diagnosis, the doctor studies the patient's medical history, symptoms, and duration of pain. Particular attention is paid to accompanying symptoms such as numbness, limited movement, weakness in the limbs, etc. The doctor also conducts a physical examination of the patient: assesses the range of motion, muscle condition, nerve function, and the shape and symmetry of the spine.

The following types of tests may be performed at New Hospitals to diagnose dorsalgia:

• X-ray — allows assessment of the condition of bone structures, signs of hernias, fractures, or degenerative changes.
• Magnetic resonance imaging — provides a broad, detailed view of tissues.
• Computed tomography — used to obtain a detailed image of bone structures or structures that are difficult to assess.
• Electromyography — used to examine nerve function.

How is dorsalgia treated?

Based on the diagnostic results, the doctor develops an individual treatment plan for the patient, which may include physical therapy, medication, or, in severe cases, surgery. The treatment method depends on the patient's condition and the cause of the pain.

At New Hospitals, patients have access to surgical and non-surgical treatment for dorsalgia, such as:

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation;
• Surgical and non-surgical treatment of intervertebral hernias;
• Cervical spine surgery;
• Minimally invasive spinal surgery;
• Endoscopic spinal surgery;
• Treatment of spinal fractures.

Can dorsalgia be prevented?

Prevention of dorsalgia includes lifestyle changes and physical activity. To prevent back pain, it is recommended to:

• Maintain regular physical activity;
• Maintain  good posture;
• Lift  weights correctly, i.e., lift  weights without bending at the waist, with bent knees, close to the body so that the load is transferred to the legs rather than the back.
• Quit  smoking;
• Maintain a healthy weight;

What should a patient with dorsalgia avoid?

Patients with dorsalgia should avoid activities and conditions that may increase pain, interfere with recovery, or cause complications. Patients with dorsalgia should avoid:

• Prolonged standing or sitting;
• Sleeping on a soft surface;
• Sudden, quick movements;
• Excessive physical exercise and heavy physical activity;
• Pain ignoring or self-medicating.