A feeling of pain that occurs in the back area. The plural 'Rückenschmerzen' is usually used in German.
example
Der Patient klagte über einen stechenden Rückenschmerz im unteren Lendenwirbelbereich.
The patient complained of a stabbing back pain in the lower lumbar region.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is clearly composed of 'der Rücken' (back) and 'der Schmerz' (pain), connected by an 's.' So it literally describes pain in the back.
EXAMPLE
Langes Sitzen am Schreibtisch kann zu Rückenschmerzen führen.
Sitting at a desk for a long time can lead to back pain.
Usually plural
Although the singular 'der Rückenschmerz' (back pain) exists, in everyday language the plural 'die Rückenschmerzen' is almost always used when talking about the general condition. The singular sounds very specific or medical.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe heute starke Rückenschmerzen.
I have severe back pain today.
Typical verbs
To express that someone has this condition, you typically use the verbs 'haben' (to have), 'leiden unter' (to suffer from), or 'klagen über' (to complain of).
EXAMPLE
Viele Menschen leiden unter chronischen Rückenschmerzen.