Rückenschmerzen
/ˈʁʏkn̩ˌʃmɛʁt͡sn̩/
The German word for backache is Rückenschmerzen.
Rückenschmerzen refers to any pain or ache in the back. You may also encounter the term Rückenbeschwerden to describe back issues or discomfort, which is frequently used in medical or formal contexts.
Meaning: any pain or ache in the back (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
Rückenschmerzen is a compound of Rücken (back) and Schmerzen (pains).
Which one should you use?
While the singular form Rückenschmerz exists, it is much less common in everyday speech than the plural form. In many contexts, Rückenschmerzen is the standard way to express having a backache.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Hesse, people might refer to backaches as Kreuzschmerzen.
How does it change in a sentence?
Rückenschmerzen is a plural noun. It is used with the plural verb form in German, even when referring to a single continuous sensation of pain.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʁʏkn̩ˌʃmɛʁtsn̩/
Did you know?
- German has a specific word Hexenschuss (witch's shot) for a sudden, acute lower back spasm that renders a person immobile.
- The root Rücken is related to the English word 'ridge', referring to the raised line of the spine.
- While Rückenschmerzen covers the whole back, the term Kreuzschmerzen specifically refers to the lower back, as Kreuz means 'cross' and describes the intersection of the hips and spine.
Examples in context
- Tom hat Rückenschmerzen.Tom has a backache.This sentence shows how to say Tom has a backache using Rückenschmerzen.Tatoeba #1453423 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1025519 by CK
- Ich habe Rückenschmerzen.I have a backache.This sentence shows how to say I have a backache using Rückenschmerzen.Tatoeba #351775 by MUIRIEL, translation #436619 by lukaszpp
- Der Patient klagt über starke Rückenschmerzen.The patient complains of severe back pain.
- Sie hat wegen der Arbeit Rückenschmerzen.She has backaches because of work.
Example conversation
Laura and Maximilian are talking at the office.
- LauraWarum sitzt du so steif, Maximilian?Why are you sitting so stiffly, Maximilian?
- MaximilianIch habe seit heute Morgen starke Rückenschmerzen.I have had bad backache since this morning.
- LauraSoll ich dir eine Massage geben?Should I give you a massage?
- MaximilianNein danke, ich gehe lieber zum Arzt.No thanks, I would rather go to the doctor.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Rückenschmerzen, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
