When the partner on top has back pain, the missionary position might present some problems, and the type of injury is a determining factor. If your pain is felt when your back is arched, the missionary position may not be the one for you. You can try propping yourself up on your forearms so that you can control the arch in your back, but this could become tiring. In any case, the thrusting made possible by the missionary position can aggravate your back. An alternative is to lie on your side, bend your knees and make love more gently than before.
Sources
Hebert, Lauren, A., P.T. (2001). Sex and Back Pain. Greenville, ME: IMPACC USA.
White, A., III, M.D. (1990). Your Aching Back: A Doctor's Guide to Relief. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster/Fireside.
Kisner, C., & Colby, L.A. (2002). Therapeutic Exercise: Foundations and Techniques.Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.

