What does 'midline' refer to in assessing back pain?

In the context of assessing back pain, the term 'midline' refers to the location of the pain in relation to the spine. When back pain is described as midline, it typically indicates that the pain is centralized around the spinal column itself. This is significant because midline pain can suggest underlying structural issues, such as herniated discs or problems related to spinal alignment, which may indicate a more serious condition than pain that is localized to one side or is diffuse.

In contrast, pain that occurs off the midline may often be associated with musculoskeletal issues, such as muscle strains or tension, which are generally less serious. Therefore, recognizing midline pain can help healthcare professionals assess the severity of the condition and guide further diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.