Radiological and Anatomical Perspectives in Back Pain: From Pathoanatomy and Imaging Diagnosis to Clinical Management
Back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide and represents a significant clinical and socioeconomic challenge. Its multifactorial nature requires a comprehensive understanding of spinal anatomy, pathological mechanisms, and imaging findings to facilitate accurate diagnosis and effective management. This review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the anatomical and radiological perspectives of back pain, emphasizing spinal pathoanatomy, diagnostic imaging, clinicoradiological correlation, and imaging-guided clinical management. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed publications retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, DOAJ, and Google Scholar. Relevant studies were identified using predefined keywords related to back pain, spinal anatomy, musculoskeletal imaging, degenerative spinal disorders, and clinical management. The selected literature was critically evaluated and organized into thematic domains. The review demonstrates that vertebral structures, intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, paraspinal muscles, neural elements, and sacroiliac joints collectively contribute to the pathogenesis of back pain. Contemporary imaging modalities, including radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and emerging advanced techniques, play complementary roles in identifying structural abnormalities and guiding treatment. Accurate clinicoradiological correlation remains essential because imaging findings do not always correspond with symptom severity. Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and advanced imaging techniques, have further enhanced diagnostic precision and personalized patient care. Integrating anatomical knowledge with radiological evaluation and clinical assessment provides a comprehensive framework for diagnosing and managing back pain. Continued advances in imaging technology and multidisciplinary research are expected to improve diagnostic accuracy, optimize treatment strategies, and support precision medicine in spine care.