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B1 noun #4,000 am häufigsten 11 Min. Lesezeit

dolor de espalda

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At the A1 level, you only need to know the basics of how to express physical discomfort. The phrase 'dolor de espalda' is very useful because it follows the simple pattern: 'dolor de' + [body part]. You should learn to use it with the verb 'tener' (to have). For example, 'Tengo dolor de espalda' means 'I have back pain.' It is a direct way to tell someone you are not feeling well. You might also see it in very simple health forms or signs at a clinic. At this stage, focus on the spelling and the fact that 'dolor' is masculine (un dolor) and 'espalda' is feminine (la espalda). You don't need to worry about complex medical terms yet; just being able to identify where it hurts is a great start. Practice saying 'Me duele la espalda' as well, which is another common way to say 'My back hurts.' Remember that 'dolor' is the noun (pain) and 'doler' is the verb (to hurt). Keeping these two straight will help you build a solid foundation for all health-related vocabulary in Spanish.
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At the A2 level, you can begin to describe your back pain with more detail using simple adjectives. Instead of just saying you have pain, you can say 'Tengo un dolor de espalda fuerte' (I have a strong back pain) or 'Tengo un dolor de espalda pequeño' (I have a small/slight back pain). You should also be able to talk about the past. For example, 'Ayer tuve dolor de espalda' (Yesterday I had back pain). This requires you to know the preterite tense of the verb 'tener'. You might also start to use the word in the context of daily activities, such as 'Tengo dolor de espalda porque trabajé mucho' (I have back pain because I worked a lot). At this level, you are moving beyond just stating a fact to providing a simple reason. You should also be comfortable using it in a pharmacy setting to ask for help, like '¿Qué es bueno para el dolor de espalda?' (What is good for back pain?). This shows you can use the vocabulary to solve a real-world problem. You are also starting to notice that 'dolor de espalda' is a fixed phrase that doesn't change much, making it easier to remember and use in various situations.
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At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more complex situations and use the phrase in a wider variety of grammatical structures. You can now use 'dolor de espalda' in the conditional or subjunctive moods. For instance, 'Si tuviera dolor de espalda, iría al médico' (If I had back pain, I would go to the doctor) or 'Espero que no tengas dolor de espalda después del viaje' (I hope you don't have back pain after the trip). You can also discuss the causes and consequences of back pain in more detail. You might talk about 'postura' (posture), 'sedentarismo' (sedentary lifestyle), or 'ejercicio' (exercise). At this level, you should also be aware of the difference between 'dolor de espalda' and more specific terms like 'lumbalgia' (lower back pain), even if you don't use the technical terms yourself. You can understand advice given by a professional, such as 'Para evitar el dolor de espalda, debe sentarse derecho' (To avoid back pain, you must sit up straight). Your ability to use the phrase in longer, more connected sentences is a key marker of this level. You can also start to use it in professional contexts, such as explaining why you might need a more ergonomic chair at work.
At the B2 level, you can use 'dolor de espalda' to engage in detailed discussions about health, wellness, and workplace ergonomics. You can describe the nuances of the pain using a broader range of adjectives like 'punzante' (stabbing), 'constante' (constant), or 'intermitente' (intermittent). You are also able to understand and use the phrase in more formal or technical contexts, such as reading an article about the economic impact of back pain on the workforce. You can argue for or against certain treatments, using phrases like 'A pesar del dolor de espalda, decidió seguir entrenando' (Despite the back pain, he decided to keep training). You are comfortable with the passive voice and other advanced structures: 'El dolor de espalda es causado frecuentemente por el estrés' (Back pain is frequently caused by stress). At this stage, you also understand the cultural implications of the phrase, such as how it's used as a common reason for taking 'baja laboral' (sick leave) in Spanish-speaking countries. You can participate in a debate about public health and the importance of preventing 'dolor de espalda' through education and better working conditions.
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At the C1 level, your use of 'dolor de espalda' is fluent and nuanced. You can use it in idiomatic expressions or metaphorical contexts if they arise, although the term itself remains largely literal. You can navigate complex medical consultations with ease, describing the onset, duration, and specific characteristics of the pain with high precision. You might use advanced linking words to explain the etiology of the condition: 'Dada la naturaleza persistente de su dolor de espalda, se recomienda una resonancia magnética' (Given the persistent nature of your back pain, an MRI is recommended). You can also understand the subtle differences in register between 'dolor de espalda', 'dolencia lumbar', and 'padecimiento raquídeo'. Your vocabulary is rich enough to discuss the psychological aspects of chronic pain, such as how 'el dolor de espalda crónico puede derivar en cuadros de ansiedad' (chronic back pain can lead to anxiety states). You can read and synthesize complex texts on the subject, such as medical research papers or ergonomic studies, and discuss them using sophisticated vocabulary and grammar.
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At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over the term 'dolor de espalda' and all its related concepts. You can use it in any context, from a highly technical medical conference to a poetic or literary description of physical suffering. You understand the historical and etymological roots of the words 'dolor' and 'espalda' and how the phrase has evolved in the Spanish language. You can interpret and produce complex documents where 'dolor de espalda' is a central theme, such as health policy reports or advanced medical textbooks. Your ability to use the phrase is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can pick up on subtle ironies or cultural nuances related to the term in literature or film. For example, you might analyze how a character's 'dolor de espalda' serves as a metaphor for the 'carga' (burden) of their life responsibilities. You can also explain the nuances between different regional terms for back pain across the Spanish-speaking world, showing a deep sociolinguistic understanding of the language.
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dolor de espalda in 30 Sekunden

  • A standard Spanish phrase for 'back pain', widely used in both everyday conversation and professional medical contexts to describe physical discomfort in the back.
  • Grammatically, it is a masculine noun phrase ('un dolor') followed by a prepositional phrase ('de espalda'), often used with verbs like 'tener' or 'sufrir'.
  • It covers a wide range of intensities, from mild stiffness to severe chronic conditions, and is a key vocabulary item for discussing health and wellness.
  • Commonly confused with the verb phrase 'me duele la espalda', it is essential for B1 learners to master both for natural communication.

The term dolor de espalda is a ubiquitous Spanish noun phrase that translates directly to 'back pain' in English. In the Spanish-speaking world, this phrase is used across all social strata and professional contexts because of its universal nature as a physical ailment. Whether you are in a formal medical setting or having a casual conversation with a friend at a café, dolor de espalda is the standard way to describe discomfort originating anywhere from the base of the neck down to the tailbone.

Anatomical Scope
While 'espalda' generally refers to the back, the phrase dolor de espalda can be subdivided into specific regions like the cervical (neck), thoracic (middle), or lumbar (lower) areas. However, in everyday speech, people rarely use clinical terms unless they are speaking to a specialist.
Symptomatic Description
The phrase encompasses everything from a dull ache (dolor sordo) to a sharp, stabbing sensation (dolor punzante). It is often accompanied by verbs like 'sentir' (to feel) or 'tener' (to have).

"Doctor, llevo tres días con un dolor de espalda que no me deja dormir." (Doctor, I've had back pain for three days that won't let me sleep.)

Culturally, mentioning dolor de espalda is a common way to vent about the stresses of modern life, particularly sedentary office work or the physical toll of manual labor. In Spain and Latin America, it is very common to hear people complain about this after a long flight, a day of gardening, or simply 'sleeping wrong' (dormir mal). It is a phrase that invites empathy and often leads to a long exchange of advice regarding mattresses, pillows, and physiotherapists.

"Después de cargar esas cajas, el dolor de espalda se volvió insoportable." (After carrying those boxes, the back pain became unbearable.)

From a linguistic perspective, the phrase is a compound noun structure. Unlike English where 'back' acts as an adjective for 'pain', Spanish uses the preposition 'de' to link the sensation to the location. This is a fundamental pattern in Spanish medical vocabulary, such as dolor de cabeza (headache) or dolor de muelas (toothache). Understanding this structure allows learners to expand their vocabulary exponentially by simply swapping the body part.

Frequency of Use
Because back issues are among the leading causes of doctor visits globally, this phrase appears frequently in news reports about public health, ergonomic advertisements, and workplace safety manuals. It is a 'high-utility' phrase that every B1 learner should master to navigate daily life in a Spanish-speaking country.

"El yoga es excelente para prevenir el dolor de espalda crónico." (Yoga is excellent for preventing chronic back pain.)

"Mi silla de la oficina me causa un constante dolor de espalda." (My office chair causes me constant back pain.)

"No puedo ir a la fiesta porque tengo un dolor de espalda terrible." (I can't go to the party because I have a terrible back pain.)

Using dolor de espalda correctly involves understanding the verbs that typically accompany it. The most common verb is tener (to have). When you want to state that you are currently suffering from it, you say 'Tengo dolor de espalda'. However, Spanish also uses the verb doler (to hurt/to ache), which functions like the verb gustar. In that case, you would say 'Me duele la espalda'. While both express the same idea, dolor de espalda as a noun phrase is more common when describing the condition itself or its causes.

With Causative Verbs
Verbs like provocar, causar, or producir are used to link an activity or object to the pain. For example: 'Estar sentado todo el día produce dolor de espalda'.
With Adjectives
To describe the intensity or duration, we use adjectives such as agudo (acute), crónico (chronic), leve (mild), or fuerte (strong). Note that these adjectives must be masculine to match 'dolor'.

"El paciente describe un dolor de espalda punzante que se extiende a las piernas." (The patient describes a stabbing back pain that extends to the legs.)

When discussing treatments, you will often see the phrase paired with verbs like aliviar (to relieve), tratar (to treat), or quitar (to take away/remove). For example: 'Este medicamento es muy bueno para quitar el dolor de espalda'. In a pharmacy, you might ask: '¿Tiene algo para el dolor de espalda?'. This is a very natural and direct way to seek help.

"Si sigues levantando pesas sin técnica, tendrás un dolor de espalda serio." (If you keep lifting weights without technique, you will have serious back pain.)

In professional environments, such as a physical therapy clinic (clínica de fisioterapia), the language becomes more precise. You might hear 'dolor de espalda baja' for lower back pain, although the technical term lumbalgia is also common. In a broader sense, dolor de espalda remains the most versatile term for general communication.

"La mala postura frente al ordenador es la causa principal de mi dolor de espalda." (Poor posture in front of the computer is the main cause of my back pain.)

"He probado masajes y cremas, pero el dolor de espalda persiste." (I have tried massages and creams, but the back pain persists.)

"¿Sufres de dolor de espalda con frecuencia?" (Do you suffer from back pain frequently?)

You will encounter the phrase dolor de espalda in a surprisingly wide variety of locations. Its most common home is in the medical field, but its reach extends far into the domestic and professional spheres. Because the back is central to human movement, any disruption to its health becomes a major topic of conversation.

In the Pharmacy (La Farmacia)
Pharmacists are often the first line of defense. You will hear customers asking for 'parches para el dolor de espalda' (back pain patches) or 'pomadas' (ointments). It is one of the most frequently mentioned complaints in this setting.
At the Gym (El Gimnasio)
Trainers and athletes use the term constantly when discussing form. You might hear a trainer say, 'Si arqueas la espalda así, vas a terminar con un dolor de espalda horrible' (If you arch your back like that, you'll end up with horrible back pain).

"En la radio anunciaron un nuevo colchón que promete eliminar el dolor de espalda." (They advertised a new mattress on the radio that promises to eliminate back pain.)

In the workplace, particularly in offices, dolor de espalda is a frequent topic during coffee breaks. It is almost a bonding mechanism among colleagues who spend eight hours a day in front of screens. You will hear discussions about 'sillas ergonómicas' (ergonomic chairs) and 'estiramientos' (stretches) specifically designed to combat the dreaded back ache.

"Mi abuela siempre dice que el clima húmedo le da dolor de espalda." (My grandmother always says that humid weather gives her back pain.)

Television commercials are another major source. Many advertisements for over-the-counter painkillers (analgésicos) feature dramatizations of someone struggling to pick up a child or groceries due to dolor de espalda. These ads are excellent for hearing the phrase used in a clear, standard accent with visual context.

"El fisioterapeuta me dio una lista de ejercicios para mi dolor de espalda." (The physical therapist gave me a list of exercises for my back pain.)

"Es normal sentir un poco de dolor de espalda después de la primera clase de pilates." (It's normal to feel a bit of back pain after the first pilates class.)

"No cargues esa maleta tú solo, no quiero que tengas dolor de espalda." (Don't carry that suitcase by yourself; I don't want you to have back pain.)

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make is trying to translate 'backache' or 'back pain' too literally. In English, we often combine the body part and the pain into one word (headache, stomachache). In Spanish, you must almost always use the 'dolor de [body part]' construction. Saying 'espaldadolores' or 'dolorespalda' as a single word is incorrect and will sound confusing to a native speaker.

Confusion with 'Atrás'
Beginners often confuse 'espalda' (the anatomical back) with 'atrás' (the direction 'behind' or 'back'). You cannot say 'dolor de atrás'. While 'atrás' refers to location in space, 'espalda' refers to the physical body part.
Gender Agreement Errors
Because 'espalda' ends in 'a', many learners assume the whole phrase is feminine. They might say 'tengo una dolor de espalda'. However, 'dolor' is masculine. The correct form is 'un dolor de espalda' or 'mucho dolor de espalda'.

"Incorrecto: Tengo mucha dolor de espalda." Correcto: Tengo mucho dolor de espalda.

Another nuance is the use of the definite article. When speaking generally about the condition, we say 'el dolor de espalda' (e.g., 'El dolor de espalda es común'). But when telling someone you have it right now, we usually say 'Tengo dolor de espalda' (without 'el') or 'Me duele la espalda'. Adding 'el' in 'Tengo el dolor de espalda' sounds like you are referring to a specific, previously mentioned pain, which is rarely what you mean in a general complaint.

"Incorrecto: Mi espalda duele mucho." Correcto: Me duele mucho la espalda.

Finally, watch out for the plural. If you have pain in multiple areas of your back, you still generally use the singular 'dolor de espalda'. Using 'dolores de espalda' suggests multiple episodes of pain over time (e.g., 'Sufro de dolores de espalda desde hace años'), rather than a single current sensation.

"Incorrecto: No puedo caminar por el dolor de atrás." Correcto: No puedo caminar por el dolor de espalda.

"Incorrecto: Tengo una fuerte dolor de espalda." Correcto: Tengo un fuerte dolor de espalda.

"Incorrecto: El dolorespalda es insoportable." Correcto: El dolor de espalda es insoportable.

While dolor de espalda is the most general and useful term, Spanish offers several more specific or technical alternatives depending on the location and nature of the pain. Knowing these can help you better describe your symptoms to a doctor or understand a medical report.

Lumbalgia vs. Dolor de Espalda
'Lumbalgia' specifically refers to lower back pain. While 'dolor de espalda' is common in casual talk, 'lumbalgia' is what you will see on a doctor's note or medical insurance form. It sounds more professional and precise.
Contractura
Often, what we call 'back pain' is actually a 'contractura muscular' (muscle knot or spasm). If you feel a specific tight spot that hurts when touched, you might say, 'Tengo una contractura en la espalda'.
Cervicalgia
This is the technical term for pain in the neck area (the upper part of the back). If your 'dolor de espalda' is specifically at the top, a doctor might use this term.

"El médico me diagnosticó una lumbalgia aguda tras el accidente." (The doctor diagnosed me with acute lower back pain after the accident.)

In some regions, particularly in Spain, you might hear the word lumbago. This is essentially a synonym for lumbalgia and is widely understood by the general public. It carries a slightly more 'traditional' or 'old-fashioned' feel than the clinical 'lumbalgia', but it is still very common.

"Tengo una contractura en el omóplato que me causa mucho dolor de espalda." (I have a muscle knot in my shoulder blade that causes me a lot of back pain.)

Another related term is ciática (sciatica). This is when back pain radiates down the leg. People will often say, 'Me ha dado un ataque de ciática' (I've had a sciatica attack) to describe a specific, severe type of back-related pain. Understanding these distinctions allows for much more nuanced communication about health and wellness.

"La ciática es mucho más dolorosa que un simple dolor de espalda." (Sciatica is much more painful than simple back pain.)

"El término médico para el dolor de cuello es cervicalgia." (The medical term for neck pain is cervicalgia.)

"A veces el mal de espalda es solo estrés acumulado." (Sometimes back trouble is just accumulated stress.)

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In Old Spanish, 'espalda' was often used in the plural 'espaldas' to refer to the back, a usage that still persists in some idiomatic expressions today like 'a espaldas de' (behind someone's back).

Aussprachehilfe

UK /doˈloɾ ðe esˈpalda/
US /doʊˈlɔːr deɪ ɛsˈpɑːldə/
Stressed on the second syllable of 'dolor' (lo) and the second syllable of 'espalda' (pal).
Reimt sich auf
color calda falda faldon caldo valor sabor gualda
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'espalda' starting with an 's' sound like in English 'spine' (avoid 'spalda').
  • Making the 'd' in 'dolor' too hard like an English 'd'.
  • Pronouncing 'de' like 'day' instead of a short 'deh'.
  • Stress on the first syllable of 'dolor'.
  • Stressing the 'es' in 'espalda'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The words are common and the structure is simple. Most learners recognize 'dolor' and 'espalda' early on.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires remembering the 'de' and the masculine gender of 'dolor'.

Sprechen 3/5

The 's' in 'espalda' can be tricky for English speakers who want to skip the initial 'e'.

Hören 2/5

The phrase is usually pronounced clearly, though 'de' can be very short.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

dolor espalda cuerpo tener malo

Als Nächstes lernen

lumbalgia fisioterapeuta estiramiento articulación columna

Fortgeschritten

escoliosis hernia discal contractura muscular ergonomía analgésico

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + de + Noun

dolor de espalda, dolor de cabeza, dolor de estómago.

The verb 'Doler' (to hurt)

Me duele la espalda (My back hurts).

Adjective Agreement

Un dolor (masculine) fuerte (neutral), un dolor agudo (masculine).

Preposition 'por' for cause

Tengo dolor de espalda por la mala postura.

Indirect Object Pronouns with 'Doler'

Le duele la espalda (His/her back hurts).

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Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Tengo dolor de espalda.

I have back pain.

Uses 'tener' + noun phrase.

2

El dolor de espalda es malo.

Back pain is bad.

Simple subject + verb 'ser' + adjective.

3

Mi papá tiene dolor de espalda.

My dad has back pain.

Third person singular of 'tener'.

4

¿Tienes dolor de espalda?

Do you have back pain?

Question form using 'tienes'.

5

No tengo dolor de espalda hoy.

I don't have back pain today.

Negative sentence with 'no'.

6

El niño tiene un pequeño dolor de espalda.

The boy has a small back pain.

Use of 'un' and adjective 'pequeño'.

7

Tengo mucho dolor de espalda.

I have a lot of back pain.

'Mucho' modifies the masculine noun 'dolor'.

8

Hola, necesito algo para el dolor de espalda.

Hello, I need something for back pain.

Preposition 'para' indicating purpose/target.

1

Ayer tuve un fuerte dolor de espalda.

Yesterday I had a strong back pain.

Preterite tense 'tuve'.

2

Si caminas mucho, tendrás dolor de espalda.

If you walk a lot, you will have back pain.

Future tense 'tendrás'.

3

Ella siempre tiene dolor de espalda en el trabajo.

She always has back pain at work.

Adverb of frequency 'siempre'.

4

No pude dormir por el dolor de espalda.

I couldn't sleep because of the back pain.

Preposition 'por' indicating cause.

5

Este colchón es bueno para tu dolor de espalda.

This mattress is good for your back pain.

Possessive adjective 'tu'.

6

El médico dice que el dolor de espalda es normal.

The doctor says that back pain is normal.

Indirect speech with 'dice que'.

7

Me compré una crema para el dolor de espalda.

I bought myself a cream for back pain.

Reflexive 'me compré' (bought for myself).

8

Mis abuelos sufren de dolor de espalda.

My grandparents suffer from back pain.

Verb 'sufrir de'.

1

Es importante estirar para evitar el dolor de espalda.

It is important to stretch to avoid back pain.

Infinitive 'estirar' after 'es importante'.

2

Dudo que el dolor de espalda desaparezca pronto.

I doubt the back pain will disappear soon.

Subjunctive 'desaparezca' after 'dudo que'.

3

Si no te sientas bien, el dolor de espalda empeorará.

If you don't sit well, the back pain will get worse.

Conditional sentence type 1.

4

He tenido dolor de espalda desde que empecé este trabajo.

I have had back pain since I started this job.

Present perfect 'he tenido'.

5

El dolor de espalda me impide hacer deporte.

Back pain prevents me from doing sports.

Verb 'impedir' + infinitive.

6

Buscamos una solución para su dolor de espalda crónico.

We are looking for a solution for your chronic back pain.

Adjective 'crónico' following the noun.

7

Me recetaron pastillas para el dolor de espalda.

They prescribed me pills for back pain.

Passive-like structure with third person plural.

8

Aunque tengo dolor de espalda, voy a caminar un poco.

Even though I have back pain, I'm going to walk a bit.

Conjunction 'aunque'.

1

El sedentarismo es el principal factor del dolor de espalda.

A sedentary lifestyle is the main factor of back pain.

Abstract noun 'sedentarismo' as subject.

2

A menos que hagas ejercicio, el dolor de espalda no se irá.

Unless you exercise, the back pain won't go away.

Subjunctive 'hagas' after 'a menos que'.

3

Se estima que el 80% de la población sufrirá dolor de espalda.

It is estimated that 80% of the population will suffer back pain.

Impersonal 'se'.

4

El fisioterapeuta analizó el origen de mi dolor de espalda.

The physical therapist analyzed the origin of my back pain.

Noun 'origen' as the object of 'analizó'.

5

Habría evitado el dolor de espalda si hubiera usado la faja.

I would have avoided the back pain if I had used the brace.

Third conditional with 'habría' and 'hubiera'.

6

Es fundamental corregir la postura para mitigar el dolor de espalda.

It is fundamental to correct posture to mitigate back pain.

Verb 'mitigar' (sophisticated synonym for alleviate).

7

El dolor de espalda puede ser un síntoma de algo más grave.

Back pain can be a symptom of something more serious.

Modal 'puede ser'.

8

A pesar de su dolor de espalda, completó la maratón.

Despite his back pain, he completed the marathon.

Prepositional phrase 'a pesar de'.

1

La prevalencia del dolor de espalda ha aumentado drásticamente.

The prevalence of back pain has increased drastically.

Academic noun 'prevalencia'.

2

El dolor de espalda es una de las mayores causas de baja laboral.

Back pain is one of the major causes of sick leave.

Compound term 'baja laboral'.

3

Resulta imperativo abordar el dolor de espalda desde una perspectiva holística.

It is imperative to approach back pain from a holistic perspective.

Formal structure 'Resulta imperativo'.

4

Su dolor de espalda se agrava con el estrés emocional.

His back pain worsens with emotional stress.

Pronominal verb 'agravarse'.

5

No debemos subestimar el impacto psicológico del dolor de espalda crónico.

We should not underestimate the psychological impact of chronic back pain.

Advanced verb 'subestimar'.

6

El tratamiento farmacológico para el dolor de espalda debe ser supervisado.

Pharmacological treatment for back pain must be supervised.

Adjective 'farmacológico'.

7

La ergonomía en el puesto de trabajo previene el dolor de espalda.

Ergonomics in the workplace prevents back pain.

Specific domain vocabulary 'ergonomía'.

8

El dolor de espalda puede irradiarse hacia las extremidades inferiores.

Back pain can radiate toward the lower extremities.

Technical verb 'irradiarse'.

1

La etiología del dolor de espalda idiopático sigue siendo un desafío médico.

The etiology of idiopathic back pain remains a medical challenge.

Highly technical terms 'etiología' and 'idiopático'.

2

El dolor de espalda se manifiesta a menudo como una somatización de conflictos internos.

Back pain often manifests as a somatization of internal conflicts.

Psychological term 'somatización'.

3

Existe una correlación intrínseca entre la higiene postural y el dolor de espalda.

There is an intrinsic correlation between postural hygiene and back pain.

Formal noun 'correlación' and adjective 'intrínseca'.

4

El dolor de espalda persistente socava la calidad de vida de los pacientes.

Persistent back pain undermines the quality of life of patients.

Strong verb 'socavar'.

5

Se requiere un enfoque multidisciplinar para tratar el dolor de espalda complejo.

A multidisciplinary approach is required to treat complex back pain.

Adjective 'multidisciplinar'.

6

La cronicidad del dolor de espalda conlleva un alto coste socioeconómico.

The chronicity of back pain entails a high socioeconomic cost.

Abstract noun 'cronicidad' and verb 'conllevar'.

7

La literatura médica abunda en estudios sobre el dolor de espalda inespecífico.

Medical literature abounds in studies on non-specific back pain.

Formal verb 'abundar'.

8

El dolor de espalda puede ser el heraldo de patologías degenerativas subyacentes.

Back pain can be the harbinger of underlying degenerative pathologies.

Literary/Formal term 'heraldo'.

Häufige Kollokationen

dolor de espalda crónico
aliviar el dolor de espalda
causar dolor de espalda
sufrir de dolor de espalda
dolor de espalda agudo
prevenir el dolor de espalda
tratar el dolor de espalda
dolor de espalda baja
fuerte dolor de espalda
crema para el dolor de espalda

Häufige Phrasen

Me mata el dolor de espalda

— An exaggerated way to say the pain is very severe. Used in informal settings.

Después de la mudanza, me mata el dolor de espalda.

Tengo un nudo de dolor de espalda

— Refers to a specific point of tension or a muscle knot. Very common in casual talk.

Tengo un nudo de dolor de espalda justo aquí.

El dolor de espalda no me deja vivir

— Expresses that the pain is constant and affects daily life deeply. Highly emotional.

Este dolor de espalda no me deja vivir, necesito ver a un médico.

Remedio para el dolor de espalda

— Refers to a cure or treatment, often a home remedy. Used in domestic contexts.

¿Conoces algún remedio para el dolor de espalda?

Dolor de espalda por estrés

— Identifies the cause of the pain as psychological tension. Very common diagnosis.

Mi médico dice que mi dolor de espalda es por estrés.

Ejercicios para el dolor de espalda

— Refers to physical therapy or stretching routines. Common in health contexts.

Hago ejercicios para el dolor de espalda cada mañana.

Cuidar el dolor de espalda

— To take care of oneself to avoid making the pain worse. Used as advice.

Tienes que cuidar ese dolor de espalda.

Parches para el dolor de espalda

— Heat or medicated patches applied to the skin. Common pharmacy item.

Compré unos parches para el dolor de espalda.

Dolor de espalda persistente

— Pain that does not go away over time. Used in more formal descriptions.

Tiene un dolor de espalda persistente desde hace un mes.

Masaje para el dolor de espalda

— A common treatment sought for back issues. Used in wellness contexts.

Necesito un buen masaje para el dolor de espalda.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

dolor de espalda vs atrás

English speakers use 'back' for both the body part and the direction. In Spanish, use 'espalda' for the body part and 'atrás' for direction.

dolor de espalda vs hombro

Sometimes people say back pain when they mean shoulder pain. 'Hombro' is shoulder, 'espalda' is the whole back.

dolor de espalda vs cintura

Lower back pain is often confused with waist pain. 'Cintura' is waist, but the pain is usually 'de espalda'.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Cargar con el dolor de espalda"

— To endure back pain while continuing with duties. Can be used literally or figuratively.

Lleva años cargando con el dolor de espalda sin quejarse.

neutral
"Darse un aire en la espalda"

— A folk belief that a draft of cold air causes sudden back pain or stiffness.

No abras la ventana, que me va a dar un aire en la espalda.

informal/traditional
"Estar doblado de dolor de espalda"

— To be literally bent over because the back pain is so intense.

Estaba doblado de dolor de espalda y no podía levantarse.

informal
"Tener la espalda hecha polvo"

— To have a back that is in very bad condition (literally 'made of dust').

Después de trabajar en la mina, tiene la espalda hecha polvo.

slang/informal
"Ser un dolor de espalda"

— Occasionally used figuratively to mean someone or something is a 'pain in the neck/back' (annoying).

Ese cliente es un auténtico dolor de espalda.

informal
"Quedarse clavado de la espalda"

— To have a sudden spasm that prevents movement (literally 'to stay nailed').

Se quedó clavado de la espalda al levantar la caja.

informal
"Arrastrar un dolor de espalda"

— To have been suffering from back pain for a long period of time.

Arrastra un dolor de espalda desde su juventud.

neutral
"Tener la espalda cargada"

— To feel tension or heaviness in the back muscles, often before full pain starts.

Tengo la espalda muy cargada por el estrés.

neutral
"Pasarle factura a la espalda"

— When an activity eventually results in back pain (literally 'to send a bill to the back').

Tantos años de fútbol le están pasando factura a la espalda.

informal
"No poder con la espalda"

— To feel so much pain or tiredness in the back that one cannot continue.

Ya no puedo con la espalda, me voy a acostar.

informal

Leicht verwechselbar

dolor de espalda vs Doler vs Dolor

One is a verb, the other is a noun.

Use 'dolor' as a thing you have (Tengo dolor). Use 'doler' as an action (Me duele).

El dolor es fuerte / Me duele mucho.

dolor de espalda vs Espalda vs Trasero

Both are on the back side of the body.

Espalda is the torso back. Trasero is the bottom/buttocks.

Me duele la espalda, no el trasero.

dolor de espalda vs Lumbalgia vs Dolor de espalda

They mean the same thing in different registers.

Lumbalgia is technical/medical for lower back pain. Dolor de espalda is general.

Tengo dolor de espalda (casual) / Sufro de lumbalgia (medical).

dolor de espalda vs Cargar vs Llevar

Both relate to moving objects that cause back pain.

Cargar implies weight/burden. Llevar is just to take from one place to another.

Cargar cajas da dolor de espalda.

dolor de espalda vs Sentarse vs Sentirse

Similar spelling, both relate to how you feel/act with back pain.

Sentarse is to sit down. Sentirse is to feel.

Me siento mal al sentarme por el dolor de espalda.

Satzmuster

A1

Tengo [dolor de espalda].

Tengo dolor de espalda.

A2

Tengo un [adjective] [dolor de espalda].

Tengo un fuerte dolor de espalda.

B1

Si [verb in subjunctive], tendría [dolor de espalda].

Si cargara eso, tendría dolor de espalda.

B2

El [dolor de espalda] es causado por [noun].

El dolor de espalda es causado por el estrés.

C1

Dada la persistencia del [dolor de espalda], [action].

Dada la persistencia del dolor de espalda, pedí cita.

C2

La manifestación del [dolor de espalda] conlleva [consequence].

La manifestación del dolor de espalda conlleva reposo.

Any

[Activity] me da [dolor de espalda].

Correr me da dolor de espalda.

Any

Necesito algo para el [dolor de espalda].

Necesito algo para el dolor de espalda.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

dolor (pain)
espalda (back)
espaldar (backrest)
espaldarazo (slap on the back/support)
dolencia (ailment)

Verben

doler (to hurt)
respaldar (to back up/support)
despaldar (to break the back - rare/archaic)

Adjektive

doloroso (painful)
espalduro (broad-shouldered - regional)
respaldado (supported)

Verwandt

columna vertebral (spine)
vértebra (vertebra)
músculo (muscle)
postura (posture)
fisioterapia (physical therapy)
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frequency

Extremely high in medical and workplace domains.

Häufige Fehler
  • Tengo una dolor de espalda. → Tengo un dolor de espalda.

    Dolor is masculine, so it requires the masculine article 'un'.

  • Me duele mi espalda. → Me duele la espalda.

    In Spanish, we use definite articles (la/el) with body parts, not possessive adjectives (mi/tu), when using verbs like 'doler'.

  • Tengo dolor de atrás. → Tengo dolor de espalda.

    'Atrás' is an adverb of place, not a noun for a body part. Use 'espalda'.

  • El dolor de espalda es muy fuerte. → Tengo un fuerte dolor de espalda.

    Both are correct, but learners often use 'ser' when they should use 'tener' to describe their current state.

  • Sufro de dolores de espaldas. → Sufro de dolores de espalda.

    'Espalda' is usually kept in the singular even if the 'dolores' are plural.

Tipps

Gender Check

Always treat 'dolor de espalda' as masculine because 'dolor' is the head of the phrase. Say 'mucho dolor', never 'mucha dolor'.

Beyond Espalda

Once you learn 'dolor de espalda', you can name any pain: 'dolor de cabeza', 'dolor de tripa', 'dolor de rodilla'. The pattern is identical.

The Silent H

Wait, there is no H in 'espalda', but don't add an H sound to 'dolor'. The 'd' should be soft, almost like a 'th' in 'this'.

Pharmacy First

In many Spanish-speaking countries, people go to the pharmacy for 'dolor de espalda' before going to the doctor. Don't be afraid to ask the pharmacist for advice.

Doler vs Tener

If you want to sound more like a native, try using 'Me duele la espalda' more often than 'Tengo dolor de espalda'.

Technical Terms

If you are at a hospital, use 'lumbalgia' if the pain is in the lower back. It sounds more precise to medical staff.

Stretching

Learn the word 'estiramientos' (stretches). It's the most common advice you'll get for 'dolor de espalda'.

Workplace

If you need to leave work early, 'dolor de espalda' is a very common and accepted reason.

Prepositions

Never forget the 'de'. 'Dolor espalda' is incorrect. It must be 'dolor DE espalda'.

Connected Speech

Listen for the 'de' and 'espalda' merging. It often sounds like 'dolor-despalda' in fast conversation.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'Dull oar' (dolor) hitting your 'Back' (espalda). The 'Dull oar' causes the 'dolor de espalda'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a giant red 'X' glowing on a person's back, and the word 'DOLOR' written in large letters across it.

Word Web

dolor espalda médico pastilla cama silla postura masaje

Herausforderung

Try to use 'dolor de espalda' in three different tenses (past, present, future) while talking about your day to a friend or in a journal.

Wortherkunft

The phrase is composed of 'dolor' and 'espalda'. 'Dolor' comes from the Latin 'dolor, -oris', meaning suffering or pain. 'Espalda' comes from the Late Latin 'spatula', which was a diminutive of 'spatha' (broad blade), referring to the shoulder blade.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The original meaning of 'dolor' was physical or mental suffering. 'Espalda' originally referred specifically to the shoulder blades before expanding to cover the entire back.

Romance (Latin-derived).

Kultureller Kontext

Be sensitive when discussing back pain with elders; it is often a serious chronic issue for them. Avoid making light of it unless you are close friends.

In English-speaking cultures, back pain is often associated specifically with the workplace and 'ergonomics'. In Spanish cultures, it's often more broadly associated with 'corrientes de aire' (drafts) and general lifestyle.

Frida Kahlo: The famous Mexican painter suffered from chronic back pain throughout her life, which is a central theme in her art. The song 'Me duele la espalda' (various artists) often reflects on the physical labor of the working class. Medical campaigns by the Spanish Ministry of Health frequently use the term to promote workplace safety.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At the Doctor

  • Tengo un dolor de espalda que baja por la pierna.
  • ¿Desde cuándo tiene este dolor de espalda?
  • Me duele la espalda al levantarme.
  • ¿Es un dolor de espalda constante?

At the Gym

  • Cuidado, ese ejercicio da dolor de espalda.
  • Me dio un tirón y ahora tengo dolor de espalda.
  • Haz estiramientos para el dolor de espalda.
  • No quiero tener dolor de espalda mañana.

At Work

  • Esta silla me está matando, tengo mucho dolor de espalda.
  • Necesito un reposapiés para evitar el dolor de espalda.
  • Voy a caminar un poco, me empieza el dolor de espalda.
  • ¿Alguien tiene una pastilla para el dolor de espalda?

At Home

  • Hijo, ayúdame con las bolsas, tengo dolor de espalda.
  • ¿Me pones un poco de crema para el dolor de espalda?
  • Este sofá es malísimo para el dolor de espalda.
  • He dormido mal y me he despertado con dolor de espalda.

At the Pharmacy

  • Hola, ¿qué tiene para el dolor de espalda?
  • Busco unos parches de calor para el dolor de espalda.
  • ¿Esta pomada sirve para el dolor de espalda?
  • Necesito algo fuerte para un dolor de espalda agudo.

Gesprächseinstiege

"¿Alguna vez has tenido un dolor de espalda tan fuerte que no podías caminar?"

"¿Qué haces tú cuando tienes dolor de espalda después de trabajar mucho?"

"¿Crees que las sillas de esta oficina causan dolor de espalda a la gente?"

"¿Conoces algún remedio casero que sea realmente bueno para el dolor de espalda?"

"¿Has ido alguna vez al fisioterapeuta por un dolor de espalda crónico?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Describe una vez que tuviste un fuerte dolor de espalda. ¿Qué lo causó y cómo te sentiste durante ese día?

Escribe sobre la importancia de la ergonomía en el trabajo para prevenir el dolor de espalda en el futuro.

Si fueras un médico, ¿qué consejos le darías a un paciente que sufre de dolor de espalda constante?

Investiga y escribe sobre cómo el estrés emocional puede manifestarse como un dolor de espalda físico.

Escribe un diálogo entre un farmacéutico y una persona que busca algo para su dolor de espalda.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Se puede decir 'dolor de espalda baja' de forma común, o 'lumbalgia' de forma más médica y técnica. Ambas son correctas y se entienden perfectamente en cualquier país hispanohablante.

Es masculino porque la palabra principal es 'dolor'. Por eso decimos 'un dolor de espalda' o 'el dolor de espalda', aunque la palabra 'espalda' sea femenina.

No hay una diferencia real en significado. 'Me duele la espalda' usa el verbo doler y es muy común. 'Tengo dolor de espalda' usa el sustantivo y es igualmente común. Puedes usar ambas indistintamente.

Puedes decir: 'Hola, ¿tiene algo para el dolor de espalda?'. Es una frase sencilla y efectiva. El farmacéutico te entenderá y te ofrecerá opciones como cremas o pastillas.

Puedes usar 'fuerte' (strong), 'leve' (mild), 'agudo' (acute), 'crónico' (chronic), 'punzante' (stabbing) o 'constante' (constant). Recuerda que deben ser masculinos para concordar con 'dolor'.

Sí, es una de las quejas de salud más comunes en todo el mundo, incluyendo España y Latinoamérica, debido al trabajo físico y al sedentarismo en las oficinas.

En español no existe una sola palabra como 'backache'. Siempre usamos la frase 'dolor de espalda'.

A veces, pero generalmente para el cuello se dice 'dolor de cuello' o 'dolor de cervicales'. 'Espalda' suele referirse a la parte de los hombros hacia abajo.

Es una banda adhesiva que se pega en la piel y libera calor o medicina para aliviar el dolor en esa zona específica.

Se dice 'Tengo un nudo en la espalda' o 'Tengo una contractura en la espalda'.

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writing

Describe tu último dolor de espalda en 3 frases.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escribe una nota para el médico sobre tu dolor.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explica por qué es importante sentarse bien.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

¿Qué remedios conoces para el dolor de espalda?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escribe un diálogo en la farmacia.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe cómo prevenir el dolor en la oficina.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Compara lumbalgia con un dolor de espalda común.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escribe sobre los beneficios del yoga para la espalda.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

¿Cómo afecta el dolor de espalda a tu vida diaria?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escribe un anuncio para un colchón ortopédico.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Resume los consejos de un fisioterapeuta.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escribe un correo pidiendo baja laboral por dolor.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe la sensación de un dolor punzante.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

¿Crees que el estrés causa dolor? Justifica.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escribe sobre la historia de los tratamientos de espalda.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Analiza el impacto económico del dolor de espalda.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Crea una rutina de ejercicios para la espalda.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe un personaje que sufre de dolor crónico.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

¿Cómo ha cambiado tu postura con los años?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Escribe una carta a tu 'yo' del futuro sobre salud.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Di 'Tengo dolor de espalda' con voz cansada.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explica a un amigo por qué no puedes ir al cine.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Pide una crema en la farmacia.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe tu dolor al médico.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Da consejos a alguien con mala postura.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Habla sobre los riesgos de cargar mucho peso.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Debate sobre medicina natural vs tradicional.

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speaking

Presenta un informe sobre salud en la oficina.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Narra una historia sobre una lesión de espalda.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Expresa frustración por un dolor crónico.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Instruye a alguien en ejercicios de espalda.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Comenta un anuncio de televisión sobre analgésicos.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Habla sobre cómo el clima afecta al dolor.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe una clínica de fisioterapia.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explica la importancia de la columna vertebral.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discute el impacto del teletrabajo en la espalda.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Simula una llamada para pedir cita médica.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Habla de tu deporte favorito y la espalda.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe el proceso de recuperación de una lesión.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Analiza éticamente el coste de los medicamentos.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Escucha: 'Me duele la espalda'. ¿Qué parte duele?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha: 'Tengo lumbalgia'. ¿Es formal o informal?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha: 'Tómate esto'. ¿Qué le da?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha una descripción de dolor. ¿Cómo es el dolor?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha consejos de un fisio. ¿Qué debe hacer?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha un anuncio. ¿Qué producto es?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha una queja laboral. ¿Cuál es el problema?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha a un doctor. ¿Qué diagnóstico da?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha una conversación en el gym. ¿Qué pasó?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha un podcast de salud. ¿Tema principal?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha una noticia. ¿Cuántos días de baja?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha a una abuela. ¿Qué remedio propone?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha instrucciones. ¿Cuándo tomar la pastilla?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Escucha una discusión técnica. ¿Qué vértebra?

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listening

Escucha un testimonio. ¿Cómo se curó?

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