What causes sharp pain in the lower back. How to identify different types of lower back pain. When should you see a doctor for lower back pain. What are effective treatments for sharp lower back pain.

Common Causes of Sharp Lower Back Pain

Sharp lower back pain can be a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are some of the most common reasons for experiencing sharp pain in the lower back:

Muscle Strain: The Most Frequent Culprit

Muscle strains are the leading cause of lower back pain, accounting for a significant portion of cases. These strains occur when muscles or tendons are stretched or torn, often due to sudden movements, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in intense physical activities. Symptoms of a muscle strain in the lower back include:

• Muscle aches and stiffness
• Difficulty moving
• Pain radiating into the buttocks or legs
• Muscle spasms that feel like sharp jolts of pain

Can muscle strains in the lower back heal on their own? In most cases, muscle strains resolve within a few weeks without medical intervention. However, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain during recovery. Applying ice packs or heating pads to the affected area several times a day may also provide relief.

Herniated Disks: When Spinal Cushions Rupture

A herniated disk, also known as a slipped disk, occurs when one of the cushioning disks between spinal vertebrae ruptures. This condition is particularly common in the lower back and can cause sharp pain by putting pressure on surrounding nerves. Symptoms of a herniated disk include:

• Pain and weakness in the lower back
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Pain in the buttocks, thighs, or calves
• Shooting pain during movement
• Muscle spasms

How does a herniated disk differ from other causes of lower back pain? Unlike muscle strains, herniated disks often cause radiating pain and neurological symptoms due to nerve compression. Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.

Sciatica: When the Largest Nerve Gets Pinched

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It typically affects only one side of the body and can cause sharp, shooting pain in the lower back.

Recognizing Sciatica Symptoms

Sciatica can manifest in various ways, ranging from mild discomfort to excruciating pain. Common symptoms include:

• Sharp, burning pain in the lower back and leg
• Electric shock-like sensations
• Numbness and tingling in the affected leg
• Foot pain or weakness

How can you differentiate sciatica from other types of lower back pain? The hallmark of sciatica is the radiating pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, often extending from the lower back down to the foot. This distinguishes it from localized back pain caused by muscle strains or other conditions.

Spinal Conditions: Beyond Muscle and Nerve Issues

Several spinal conditions can lead to sharp lower back pain, affecting both adults and children. These conditions often involve structural changes in the spine that can compress nerves or alter spinal alignment.

Spinal Stenosis and Lordosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the nerves traveling through the spinal canal. Lordosis, on the other hand, refers to an excessive inward curvature of the spine. Both conditions can cause sharp lower back pain and other symptoms, including:

• Tingling or numbness in the legs or feet
• Cramping in the legs
• Weakness in the lower extremities
• Pain that worsens with movement or prolonged standing

Are spinal conditions always chronic, or can they be treated effectively? While some spinal conditions are chronic, many can be managed effectively with a combination of physical therapy, pain management techniques, and in some cases, surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for optimal outcomes.

Infections and Inflammatory Conditions

Although less common, infections and inflammatory conditions can also cause sharp lower back pain. These cases often require immediate medical attention due to their potential severity.

Spinal Infections: Rare but Serious

Spinal infections, such as spinal tuberculosis or abscesses on the spinal cord, are rare but can cause severe sharp pain in the lower back. Risk factors for spinal infections include:

• Compromised immune system
• Recent spinal surgery
• Intravenous drug use
• Chronic health conditions

How quickly do symptoms of spinal infections develop? Symptoms of spinal infections can develop gradually over several weeks or appear suddenly. In addition to sharp back pain, individuals may experience fever, muscle spasms, and in severe cases, loss of bladder or bowel control.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Hidden Danger

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) occurs when the wall of the aorta, the main blood vessel running through the abdomen, weakens and expands. While not directly related to the spine, an AAA can cause sharp lower back pain that may be mistaken for other conditions.

Recognizing the Signs of AAA

Symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm can be subtle or dramatic, depending on its size and rate of growth. Key indicators include:

• Sudden, severe back pain
• Pain in the abdomen or side
• A pulsating sensation near the navel
• Dizziness or fainting

Why is early detection of AAA crucial? Early detection of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is vital because a ruptured AAA is life-threatening and requires immediate emergency surgery. Regular check-ups and screenings for individuals at high risk can help detect AAAs before they become dangerous.

Arthritis: When Joints Wear Down

Various forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis (OA), can affect the spine and cause sharp lower back pain. Arthritis in the back occurs when the cartilage between vertebrae wears down, leading to pain and stiffness.

Identifying Arthritic Back Pain

Arthritis in the spine can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Stiffness that improves with movement
• Pain that worsens at the end of the day
• Decreased range of motion in the spine
• Tenderness or swelling in the affected area

How does arthritic back pain differ from other types of lower back pain? Arthritic back pain often has a characteristic pattern of being worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity, then improving with gentle movement. This distinguishes it from pain caused by muscle strains or herniated disks, which may worsen with activity.

Kidney Conditions: When Back Pain Signals Internal Issues

Kidney-related problems can sometimes manifest as sharp lower back pain, particularly in cases of kidney stones or kidney infections. Unlike most causes of back pain, kidney issues often cause pain on one side of the lower back.

Differentiating Kidney Pain from Other Back Pain

Kidney-related back pain has several distinctive features:

• Pain is typically felt on one side of the lower back
• May be accompanied by fever and chills
• Often associated with changes in urination patterns
• Can cause nausea or vomiting

How can you tell if lower back pain is caused by a kidney problem? Kidney-related back pain is often accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, changes in urine color or frequency, and nausea. If you suspect your back pain may be related to a kidney issue, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

When to See a Doctor for Sharp Lower Back Pain

While many cases of lower back pain resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to recognize these red flags to ensure timely treatment and prevent potential complications.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Medical Care

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms along with sharp lower back pain:

• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Numbness in the groin or inner thighs
• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
• Severe, constant pain that doesn’t improve with rest
• Unexplained weight loss
• Recent trauma or injury to the back

Should you wait to see if lower back pain resolves on its own? While mild back pain often improves with home care, persistent or severe pain, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early intervention can prevent the development of chronic pain and identify any underlying serious conditions.

Diagnostic Approaches for Lower Back Pain

When you consult a doctor for sharp lower back pain, they may use various diagnostic tools to determine the underlying cause:

1. Physical examination to assess range of motion and pinpoint areas of pain
2. Neurological tests to check for nerve involvement
3. Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans
4. Blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation
5. Electromyography (EMG) to evaluate nerve and muscle function

How do doctors determine the best treatment plan for lower back pain? The treatment approach is tailored based on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. A comprehensive evaluation helps doctors develop an effective management strategy, which may include medication, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, or in some cases, surgical intervention.

Treatment Options for Sharp Lower Back Pain

The treatment of sharp lower back pain depends on its underlying cause and severity. A multi-faceted approach often yields the best results, combining various therapies to address pain, improve function, and prevent recurrence.

Conservative Treatment Approaches

For many cases of lower back pain, conservative treatments are the first line of defense:

• Rest and activity modification
• Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy and targeted exercises
• Hot and cold therapy
• Massage and manual manipulation

How long should you try conservative treatments before considering more aggressive options? Most healthcare providers recommend giving conservative treatments at least 4-6 weeks before exploring more invasive options, unless symptoms are severe or indicate a serious underlying condition.

Advanced Treatment Options

When conservative measures fail to provide relief, more advanced treatments may be considered:

• Prescription pain medications or muscle relaxants
• Epidural steroid injections
• Nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation
• Spinal cord stimulation
• Surgical intervention for severe cases

What factors influence the decision to pursue surgical treatment for lower back pain? The decision to undergo surgery is based on several factors, including the specific diagnosis, severity of symptoms, impact on quality of life, and the patient’s overall health. Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments have failed and there’s a clear structural problem that can be addressed surgically.

Lifestyle Modifications and Prevention

Preventing recurrent episodes of sharp lower back pain often involves making lifestyle changes:

• Maintaining good posture
• Regular exercise and stretching
• Ergonomic workspace setup
• Weight management
• Stress reduction techniques

Can lifestyle changes alone prevent all instances of lower back pain? While lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of developing lower back pain, they may not prevent all instances, especially those caused by underlying medical conditions or injuries. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for overall spine health and can minimize the frequency and severity of back pain episodes.

Understanding the various causes of sharp lower back pain and recognizing when to seek medical attention are crucial steps in managing this common condition. By working closely with healthcare providers and adopting a proactive approach to spine health, individuals can often find relief from lower back pain and improve their overall quality of life. Remember, early intervention and a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs offer the best chances for successful management of sharp lower back pain.

Causes and When to See a Doctor

Overview

About 80 percent of adults experience lower back pain at least once. Back pain is usually described as dull or aching, but can also feel sharp and stabbing.

Many things can cause sharp lower back pain, including muscle strains, herniated disks, and kidney conditions.

Muscle strain

Muscle strains are the most common cause of lower back pain. Strains happen when you stretch or tear a muscle or tendon. They’re usually caused by injuries, either from sports or making certain motions, such as lifting a heavy box.

Muscle strains can also cause muscle spasms, which may feel like sharp jolts of pain.

Other symptoms of muscle strain in your lower back include:

• muscle aches
• stiffness
• difficulty moving
• pain radiating into your buttocks or legs

Muscle strains usually go away on their own within a few weeks. In the meantime, you can try over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to help manage your pain. Using an ice pack or heating pad on your lower back a few times a day may also help.

Muscle strain is the most common cause of lower back pain, but several other conditions can also cause it.

Herniated disk

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc, happens when one of the discs that sits between your spinal bones ruptures. Slipped discs are common in the lower back, and sometimes put pressure on the surrounding nerves, causing a sharp pain.

Other symptoms include:

• pain and weakness in the lower back
• numbness or tingling
• pain in your buttocks, thighs, or calves
• shooting pain when you move
• muscle spasms

Sciatica

The sciatic nerve is your largest nerve. It spans your lower back, buttocks, and legs. When something like a herniated disc puts pressure on it or pinches it, you might feel a sharp pain in your lower back with pain radiating down your leg.

This is known as sciatica. It usually only affects one side of your body.

Other symptoms include:

• mild to excruciating pain
• a burning sensation
• an electric shock sensation
• numbness and tingling
• foot pain

If you’re having trouble finding relief from sciatica pain, try these six stretches for relief.

Compression fracture

A compression fracture in the lower back, also known as a vertebral compression fracture, happens when one of your vertebrae breaks and collapses. Injuries and underlying conditions that weaken your bones, such as osteoporosis, can cause it.

Symptoms of a compression fracture vary depending on the cause, but usually include:

• mild to severe back pain
• leg pain
• weakness or numbness in the lower extremities

Spinal conditions

Some spinal conditions, such as spinal stenosis or lordosis, can also cause sharp lower back pain in both adults and children. Spinal stenosis causes the spaces in your spine to narrow, causing pain.

Lordosis refers to the natural S-shaped curve of your spine. However, some people have a more dramatic curvature that causes pain. Learn more about other spinal conditions that might cause pain.

Additional symptoms of a spinal condition include:

• tingling or numbness in the legs or feet
• lower back pain
• cramping in the legs
• weakness in the legs or feet
• pain when moving

Infections

Spinal infections can also cause sharp pain in your lower back. People often associate tuberculosis (TB) with the lungs, but it can also infect your spine. Spinal TB is rare in developed countries, but people with compromised immune systems have a higher risk of getting it.

You can also develop an abscess on your spinal cord, though this is also rare. If the abscess is large enough, it can start to put pressure on nearby nerves. Several things can cause this, including surgery complications or injuries involving a foreign object.

In addition to sharp pain that may radiate to your arms and legs, spinal infections can also cause:

• muscle spasms
• tenderness
• stiffness
• loss of bladder or bowel control
• fever

Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Your aortic artery runs straight down the middle of your body. An abdominal aortic aneurysm happens when part of this artery’s wall becomes weakened and expands in diameter. This can happen slowly over time or very suddenly.

Symptoms include:

• back pain that’s sometimes sudden or severe
• pain in the abdomen or side of your abdomen
• a pulsating feeling around your abdomen

Arthritis

Many types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis (OA), can affect your back. When this happens, it causes the cartilage between your vertebrae to wear down, which can be painful.

Additional symptoms of arthritis in your back include:

• stiffness that goes away after moving
• pain that gets worse at the end of the day

For relief, try these gentle exercises for arthritis back pain.

Kidney conditions

Sometimes you can feel pain from your kidneys in your lower back, especially if you have kidney stones or a kidney infection. You’re more likely to feel kidney-related back pain on one side.

Additional symptoms of a kidney problem include:

• fever and chills
• pain during urination
• frequent urination
• pain in your side or groin
• smelly, bloody, or cloudy urine

Endometriosis

Endometriosis happens when uterine tissue starts growing in parts of the body other than the uterus, such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes. It can cause severe abdominal, pelvic, and lower back pain in women.

Other endometriosis symptoms include:

• severe pain during menstruation
• pain during or after intercourse
• infertility
• bleeding or spotting between periods
• digestive issues
• painful bowel movements
• painful urination during menstruation

Ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts are small, fluid-filled bubbles that form in your ovaries. They’re fairly common and usually don’t cause symptoms. However, when they’re large, they can cause sudden pain in your pelvis that often radiates to your lower back.

Additional symptoms of ovarian cysts include:

• feeling of fullness or pressure
• abdominal bloating

Large ovarian cysts are more likely to rupture, which also causes sudden, severe pain. A ruptured ovarian cyst can cause internal bleeding, so call your doctor right away if you suddenly feel pain around one side of your pelvis.

Ovarian torsion

Sometimes one or both of your ovaries can twist, resulting in a condition called ovarian torsion. In many cases, the connected fallopian tube also twists.

Ovarian torsion causes severe abdominal pain that comes on rapidly and often spreads toward your lower back. Some women also have symptoms of nausea and vomiting.

Ovarian torsion is a medical emergency that requires treatment right away to avoid permanent damage to your ovary. While you’ll likely need surgery, most women regain full function of the affected ovary.

Uterine fibroids

Fibroids are muscular tumors that are almost always noncancerous. They can form in the lining of the uterus and cause lower back pain. Some are very tiny, while others can grow to the size of a grapefruit or larger.

Fibroids can also cause:

• heavy bleeding
• painful periods
• lower abdominal swelling

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious condition caused by an infection of the female reproductive organs. It often develops when sexually transmitted infections, such chlamydia and gonorrhea, go untreated.

Symptoms are often mild or unnoticeable, but you may experience:

• pain in lower abdomen
• foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• pain or bleeding during sex
• fever

If you think you have PID, contact your doctor immediately. You’ll need to start taking antibiotics right away to avoid possible complications, such as infertility or an ectopic pregnancy.

Pregnancy

Up to 50 percent of pregnant women experience some type of lower back pain. It’s usually felt as pelvic girdle pain or lumbar pain.

Pelvic girdle pain, which is about four times more common than lumbar pain among pregnant women, causes sharp, stabbing pain in the lower back.

It can also cause:

• constant pain
• pain that comes and goes
• pain on one or both sides of lower back
• pain that shoots down to the thigh or calf

Lumbar pain in pregnant women resembles other chronic lower back aches in nonpregnant women. Both types of back pain typically resolve within the first few months after delivery.

Warning

1. Lower back pain is sometimes a symptom of a miscarriage when accompanied by spotting, bleeding, or unusual discharge. Other things can cause these symptoms, but it’s best to check in with your doctor.

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Prostatitis

Prostatitis is a common condition that causes inflammation in the prostate, often due to a bacterial infection. Some cases don’t cause any symptoms, but others can cause lower back pain as well as:

• pain in the groin, penis, scrotum, anus, or lower abdomen
• pain during or after ejaculation or urination
• increased urge to urinate
• fever

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is cancer that begins in the prostate, a small gland near the bladder that produces fluid for semen.

In addition to lower back pain, it can also cause:

• urinary problems
• painful ejaculation

Learn more about prostate cancer, including risk factors and screening guidelines.

Lower back pain usually isn’t a medical emergency. Chances are, you strained muscle. But, if you’re pregnant or have any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible:

• fever or chills
• urinary or bowel incontinence
• severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments
• a pulsating feeling in the abdomen
• nausea or vomiting
• difficulty walking or balancing

5 signs your back pain might be an emergency | Back and Spine | Orthopaedics and Rehab

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MedBlog

Back and Spine;

Orthopaedics and Rehab

July 3, 2019

Back and Spine;

Orthopaedics and Rehab

Douglas Dickson, M. D.

Orthopaedic Surgery

Kavita Trivedi, D.O.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

About 80% of adults will experience back pain in their lives, so it’s important to be able to identify the severity of your symptoms.

In our 20s and 30s, “normal” back pain often can be attributed to factors of daily life, such as sitting too long, picking up children, or overdoing it while exercising.  

In our 40s and older, work injuries and the beginnings of arthritis and degenerative conditions are more common.

Back pain is so common, in fact, that many patients shrug off symptoms that might indicate a medical emergency.

Approximately 80% of adults will experience back pain in their lives, so it’s important to be able to identify the severity of your symptoms and track how long the pain lasts.

If back pain can be associated with a specific activity, such as lifting or twisting wrong, and the pain goes away within 72 hours after resting and applying ice, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, if pain creeps on gradually, appears suddenly, or doesn’t go away, you might have a more serious condition. 

5 sensations that might indicate a medical emergency

1. Sharp pain rather than a dull ache: This could indicate a torn muscle or ligament, or a problem with an internal organ in the back or side.
2. Radiating pain: This pain “moves” or shoots to the glutes or legs, which could indicate a nerve compression condition.

Radiating pain could be a sign of nerve damage.

3. Sudden weakness in the legs: Limb weakness can be caused by compressed nerves in the spine due to conditions like sciatica or spinal stenosis. However, sudden leg weakness could also indicate a stroke.
4. Incontinence: Back pain paired with inability to control the bowels or bladder might be a sign of serious nerve compression or a spine infection, such as discitis or meningitis.
5. Numbness or pins and needles in the groin or glutes: This is known as saddle anesthesia and is also a sign of a serious nerve or spine condition. 

If you have leg weakness, incontinence, and numbness together, you might have cauda equina syndrome, a serious illness characterized by spinal cord nerve damage. This is a medical emergency, and patients usually need surgery immediately to decompress the nerves and reduce permanent damage.

Related reading: Get help for back, neck, and leg pain caused by spinal stenosis

Other conditions that cause back pain in older adults

We often see a range of less serious but still painful spine conditions in seniors. Most patients with these conditions will not require surgery. Physical therapy, medication, injectable anesthetics, or a combination of treatments usually can control symptoms.

• Degenerative disc disease, which can cause whole spine pain, and lumbar arthritis, which usually causes low-back pain, commonly develop with age and are considered wear-and-tear conditions.
• Sacroiliitis is an inflammation of the joints that connect your spine and pelvis. This condition can cause pain in the low back, glutes, and upper legs.
• Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory arthritis that causes patients’ spines to become inflexible, resulting in a continual hunched forward position and spine pain.
• We also check for adult degenerative scoliosis and kyphosis, spine-curving conditions that can result in back pain and weakness in the lower extremities.

Take an inside look at The Spine Center at UT Southwestern, where the multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and providers delivers cutting edge treatment for back pain and spine-related injuries.

Rare, non-spine conditions that cause back pain

Occasionally, our spine team finds that a patient’s back pain is caused by an underlying condition that is not spine related. 

Kidney and digestive issues, including pancreatitis and gallstones, can cause low-back discomfort that patients might assume is spine pain. In women, uterine fibroids and endometriosis are notorious for causing core pain that can radiate into the back.

Rarely, we discover that a patient with sudden, severe back pain has experienced a ruptured aneurysm, which is a weakening and tearing of part of a blood vessel. This is a medical emergency because it causes internal bleeding that can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Similarly, aortic dissection – the tearing of an inner layer of tissue in the aorta, the main vessel carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body – sometimes causes back pain and can be fatal if not immediately treated.

Research suggests the spine is also prone to receiving cancer cells that spread from other parts of the body. Batson’s plexus, a network of veins that connect the venous system and spine, might (for unknown reasons) direct spreading cancer cells to the spine. For example, prostate cancer has been known to spread to the spine.

Related reading: Prostate Cancer Awareness Guide

Existing patients may also schedule an appointment using MyChart.

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Why back pain requires a team approach to care

Whether back pain requires surgery or is manageable with conservative treatment, it’s important to see a spine specialist for diagnosis and care. The doctors at our Spine Center work as a team with experts in nerve, muscle, and bone conditions, as well as nurses and physical therapists who work closely with patients to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrence.  

Each week, our multidisciplinary team meets to discuss challenging cases and educate each other on the latest research and techniques. Together, we see a range of patients with complex medical needs. For example, if a patient with a spinal infection is taking a medication that suppresses the immune system, such as immunotherapy for cancer, we work together to find an effective treatment that is safe for their unique needs.

Some medications or medical conditions put patients at greater risk for low bone density, fractured vertebrae, or back pain. In these cases, we get referrals from and collaborate with oncologists, hematologists, rheumatologists, mineral metabolism doctors, and primary care doctors to reduce patients’ risks and manage their symptoms. 

If you are worried about back pain, come see us for reassurance. The earlier you are diagnosed, the better your outcomes can be. 

If you or a loved one might benefit from a back pain consultation, call 214-645-8300 or request an appointment online.  

Laurie Zapatka was injured in a car accident 20 years ago and her condition became progressively worse. By the time she came to UT Southwestern, her mobility was severely limited. A day after posterior spinal fusion surgery, she was up and moving with “zero pain.”

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Right lower back pain, lower back pain on the right side

Diagnosis and treatment of lower back pain on the right in the Cypress Center

The most common causes of lower back pain are muscle tension and irritated nerve fibers. Similar pain can sometimes be a sign of damage to the internal organs. And yet, the most common such pain is a violation of the musculoskeletal system.

According to statistics, low back pain is equally common in both the right and left parts of the back. According to recent studies, almost 30% of the adult population suffers from low back pain. In 70% of them, diseases are observed and are in a neglected state.

Diagnosis and treatment of lower back pain on the right and left is one of the key areas in the professional activity of the Kiparis Back Health Center. The effectiveness of the technique used in our center has been proven by clinical studies.

Why does my lower back hurt on the right?

In this part of the back is the abdominal cavity, which includes such organs as the liver, intestines, gallbladder, kidney. In women, it is also the right ovary. If there are sharp pains in the lower back on the right, then along with them, often, there is an increase in temperature, followed by chills, diarrhea, or, conversely, constipation. In addition, urine may change, and women often experience disruptions in the menstrual cycle. Another characteristic symptom is the presence of pain in the lower abdomen, which has a pulling character.

Men who experience lower back pain on the right side should see a urologist, women should see a gynecologist. Representatives of both sexes without fail should do an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, take a urine and blood test. People aged 45 years and over should additionally undergo an ECG.

In cases where no problems with the internal organs were found during an additional examination by a doctor, a complete examination of the spinal region is required. The most reliable diagnostic methods are examination by a vertebrologist and MRI of the lumbar. All this can be done at the Kiparis back health center located in Kiev.

Right back pain: symptoms and consequences

Right back pain is of two types:

• Aching, drawing, dull;
• Cutting, sharp, unbearably strong, burning.

Pain of the first type is quite often a characteristic symptom of spondyloarthrosis. Most often, this pain makes itself felt at night, in the morning after waking up or after a long stay in a sitting position.

Regarding pain sensations of the second type, most often it is a sign of acute backache. Often, pain occurs as a result of a temperature drop. These pain sensations noticeably limit movement and are most often manifested in patients after hypothermia, a shower, or after a massage session. Often, during movements, during coughing, bending over, deep breaths, such pain is noticeably stronger.

Based on their focus of manifestation, pain in the lower back is a sign of various diseases:

• Pain that radiates to the gluteal muscle or lower limb: a characteristic sign of nerve root damage. If such pain is distant, it is a symptom of a serious, advanced disease;
• Pain that occurs when lying down and is associated with pain in the groin: vertebral lesions in the upper part of the lumbar region;
• Pain of a remote nature, developing into numbness of one of the lower extremities: paralysis, loss of the main function;
• Pain that occurs while running or walking: inflammation of the sciatic nerve;
• Pain in the lumbar region during pregnancy: a consequence of a strong load on the spine, which the female body cannot withstand. Worsening of the symptom can complicate the course of pregnancy and provoke premature birth.

In general, pain in the lumbar region is not typical for children, but at the diagnostic stage it is important to exclude kyphosis, scoliosis and other acute diseases.

Back pain on the right: diagnosis and treatment

The first thing to do if you have back pain is to determine the cause. Men need to visit a urologist, women – a gynecologist. Next, representatives of both sexes need to visit a vertebrologist.

Diagnosis by a trained professional can help determine the root cause of pain. Quite often, during the examination, new formations are found in the central nervous system and spinal cord. Inflammation and stroke are also possible.

If a protrusion or disc herniation is detected, the course of treatment will take, on average, from 10 to 45 days. Treatment in the Center “Cypress” proceeds without surgical intervention. The latter became possible thanks to the unique technique of “Self-defense of the body” and a special simulator. This approach to treatment, supervised by a team of qualified specialists, will help restore the lost functions of the musculoskeletal system.

Why women have lower back pain

Why women have lower back pain – causes of strong, aching pain in the lumbar spine

Gimranov Rinat Fazylzhanovich
Neurologist, neurophysiologist, experience – 33 years;
Professor of Neurology, MD;
Clinic for Rehabilitation Neurology. About the author

Publication date: August 26, 2022

Updated: December 7, 2022 and pathological.

Article content:

• 1 Causes
• 2 Diseases
• 3 Diseases of the reproductive system
  • 3.1 Diseases of the kidneys
  • 3.2 Osteochondrosis
  • 3.3 Herniated discs
  • 3.4 Scoliosis
  • 3.5 Tumors
  • 3.6 Fractures
• 4 Types of pain
• 5 When to see a doctor
• 6 Diagnosis
• 7 Treatment
  • 7. 1 Medical treatment
  • 7.2 Physiotherapy
  • 7.3 Surgery
• 8 Prevention
• 9 References

Causes

th, arising from the back left or right on both sides, girdle, sharp and strong or aching, pulsating, dull, pulling – what to do about it and what treatment will help, you can decide only after knowing the cause of their occurrence.

The most common causes in girls:

• Excessive exercise. Exercising, incorrect posture during hard work, diligence when carrying heavy things from the store or working in the garden in itself leads to discomfort due to muscle strain. However, it also contributes to the wear of cartilage and deformation of the bone tissue of the spine.
• Pregnancy. Increased weight, the location of the fetus, constantly pressing on the pelvic organs and increasing the load on the spine, shifting the center of gravity. If there is girdle pain, then this requires immediate hospitalization.
• Menstruation. Often the pain occurs before the onset of bleeding, when the uterus expands due to the influx of blood. However, if they are extremely strong, you should consult a gynecologist.
• Climax. During this period, lumbar discomfort indicates a gradual extinction of ovarian activity, hormonal changes.
• Breast size. By nature, large breasts are a load on the spinal column, so it is important to choose the right bra. Often this is faced by women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery, as their back is not adapted to the sharply increased constant load.
• Excess weight is another cause of lower back pain in women. Too much weight in itself is already an increased load, especially in combination with physical labor or a long stay in an uncomfortable position [1].
• Shoes. Incorrect sole, which does not take into account the peculiarities of human physiology, leads to the fact that the weight is distributed unevenly, the load increases not only on the foot, but also on the lumbar region. The optimal height of the heel is up to 5 centimeters. People with spinal or leg problems need to wear orthopedic shoes.
• Hypothermia. Due to a sharp change in temperature, exposure to cold, there may be excessive compression of the nerve roots and increased pain.

When deciding why women and girls have lower back pulls or constant severe pain in the lower back or on the left, it is necessary to take into account all the possible reasons why seizures can occur.

Patients prefer to write it off as exercise, lack of mobility or fatigue, take pain medication and forget about the problem. If there is a serious pathology without treatment, then complications develop that reduce the quality of life. Therefore, do not put off going to the doctor.

Diseases

Before deciding how to treat pain in the lower back in women in the lumbar region, it is necessary to determine the causes, because often in the lower middle of the back near the spine and pulling on the sides or girdle, strong and aching, radiating to the legs so that no straightening pain is associated with gynecology.

Diseases of the reproductive system

Before deciding how to treat, it is worth remembering that severe acute or pulling, cramping pains in the lower back in the middle of the back or girdle in girls and women at 45 or after 50 years often occur due to a gynecological reason, and treatment should be prescribed with this in mind.

The most common causes of pain in:

1. Hormonal changes, menopause.
2. With the appearance of uterine polyps and their growth.
3. In the presence of ovarian cysts. This can put the patient’s life at risk if the cyst ruptures.
4. Endometriosis.

If a woman or a girl has pain in the lower back, lower back in the middle when you stand for a long time, or suddenly starts to prick at the bottom left at night, then the doctor should determine why these symptoms appeared, because of which the state of health worsened and how to treat the person, the doctor should, so as there are many gynecological diseases. Just taking painkillers will not get rid of the problem, but you can make it worse.

Diseases of the kidneys

May be accompanied by soreness that may appear on only one side of the lower back.

Help to identify the problem:

• Urine color change.
• Pain when urinating.
• Increased urge to go to the toilet.
• Presence of traces of blood in the urine.

The most common kidney diseases:

1. Urolithiasis.
2. Pyelonephritis [2].
3. Renal failure.
4. Glomerulonephritis.

Each of the diseases is accompanied by additional symptoms, so it is important to see a doctor, because sometimes not provided timely assistance can lead to a complete organ failure.

Osteochondrosis

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spinal column are a condition for the development of osteochondrosis. In women, the likelihood of its development is higher than in men, since pregnancy is added.

Factors predisposing to osteochondrosis:

• Lack of daily physical activity.
• Heavy weight.
• Large and constant physical activity.
• Malnutrition and lack of vitamins and trace elements.
• Pregnancy.

If you do not turn to specialists in time and do not start treatment, then the most likely development of events will be an increase in pain in the lower back associated with stress, as well as a gradual thinning of the intervertebral discs.

Intervertebral hernias

Under pressure, due to the reduced space between the vertebrae, the annulus fibrosus can rupture, the nucleus pulposus partially flows out of it into the intervertebral canal, and because of this, a hernia is formed [3]. How much fluid leaked out and how it was distributed depends on the size of the hernia and its location, and hence the degree of pain, which is usually strong and prolonged.

The only way to get rid of it is through surgery. However, operations are considered complex, as they are performed on the spinal column. It is far from always possible to eliminate a hernia even by surgery. And even after radical treatment, there is no guarantee that the problem will not arise again.

Scoliosis

The first changes in the spine occur during adolescence, when the body is growing rapidly. If you do not start to correct them, then over the years it can get worse.

As the deformity develops, there may be pain in the form of the body’s reaction to excessive stress, but as it develops, the seizures can become chronic.

Tumors

This is a common occurrence. Vertebral hemangiomas are often observed – vascular neoplasms. Also in the research are not only benign neoplasms, but also cancerous tumors [4].

All types of neoplasms, by their appearance, bring pain and stiffness of movements. This is due to the fact that the muscles and tumors gradually compress the nerves, pinching them.

If a problematic neoplasm is found, a surgical operation is performed.

Fractures

One of the most dangerous problems.

The danger of getting it increases with age. After the onset of menopause, cracks and destruction of the bone can be not only after a fall or blow, but even an awkward movement.

Fractures are accompanied by severe pain, and when nerves are damaged, pain and inability to move are transferred to the lower extremities. In the elderly, fractures sometimes occur not so pronounced: there is almost no pain, but only slight discomfort during movement. Because of this feature, they are poorly diagnosed with such injuries.

Types of pain

Treatment can be prescribed by a doctor, determining the cause by the type of pain in the lumbar spine and back in women.

According to the type of localization, they distinguish:

1. Local appears in a specific place and does not spread anymore. Often it occurs due to an injury or developed swelling or inflammation of the muscles. It manifests itself after certain movements, intensifies and weakens, flows into a chronic state.
2. Irradiating – spreading, radiating to the legs. Dull and aching or sharp pain sensations that have arisen in the belt area spread to the leg, reaching the knee or foot. Often this is a sign of a herniated disc or a pinched sciatic nerve.
3. Reflected – manifests itself in the back, although the cause is the internal organs. Most often, the pain is dull and aching, not responding to the position of the body or sudden movements due to diseases of the kidneys or pelvic organs.

According to intensity and character it is possible to distinguish:

• Pulling, aching uniform pain. Such sensations are characteristic of inflammatory processes occurring in the pelvic organs or in the muscles next to the spinal column. In females, they may develop at the end of pregnancy or during menstruation.
• Sharp and sharp. Occurring suddenly after any movement is an indicator of a dangerous condition requiring surgical intervention. This is how cysts appear in the ovaries and the rupture of the organ itself, ectopic pregnancy, inflammation of appendicitis, an attack of urolithiasis, a serious injury to the spine, hernia. Sudden severe attacks, stiffness of movements and inability to breathe are signs of the presence of osteochondrosis and appear after physical exertion.
• Shingles. In this case, the exact location of the pain is almost impossible to determine. It is residually strong and at the same time it seems to spread around the belt, covering both the back and the lower abdomen. Similar symptoms are characteristic of inflammatory processes affecting the kidneys, bladder or intestinal tract.

However, after the initial appointment, an examination will still be needed, since even a banal shooting pain in the lower back when moving in women can have several reasons explaining why the lower back hurts.

When to see a doctor

Backache in women is a sign of various causes and injuries, so it is extremely important to correctly assess the degree of danger of a person’s condition.

Doctors urge you to seek help immediately if:

• Pain medications provide only little or no relief without significantly increasing the dose of medication.
• Lower back pain interferes with motor activity, fetters. Often it is sharp, increasing with activity, extending into the leg.
• When changing the position of the body, reducing the load, it does not subside and does not increase.
• Significant stiffness of movement. It is difficult to get up from a sitting position, straighten your back after bending over.
• Pain is very severe, localized in one place, which arose suddenly after a sudden movement or injury.
• Painful sensations do not subside for 1-2 days, do not weaken even at night.

Diagnostics

Several stages of diagnostics will help to figure out what exactly is where the lower back is and causes an attack of pain in women.

Already at the first appointment, the doctor will be able to make a preliminary diagnosis by examining and questioning the patient, and then prescribing examinations.

Initially, it is best to make an appointment with a therapist. During the initial examination, the doctor will not only directly assess the condition, but also ask several questions to find out:

• What medications were taken, how they worked.
• The pain is constant or comes in attacks. What provokes them.
• Features of localization and intensity of pain.
• Anamnesis. It is important to find out if there have been problems of a certain nature in the past. What is the lifestyle of the patient?

After a preliminary determination, they will be redirected to a specialist of a narrower profile and prescribe hardware and laboratory tests. May prescribe:

1. Blood chemistry and hormone testing.
2. General analysis of blood and urine.
3. X-ray.
4. Ultrasound examination of the kidneys, pelvic organs, reproductive system.

Having determined what can cause a woman’s lower back to be pulled, the doctor will take the right medications and prescribe additional consultations with narrow specialists.

Treatment

Since the lower back hurts in women and girls not only with female diseases, then it is possible to decide what to do and what to treat if the back hurts constantly or very strongly, often and for a long time on the left or right back, it is possible only after determining the exact the reasons why and in what disease such a condition manifested itself.

Treatment for back pain in women is always prescribed individually, in accordance with the identified disease, the degree of its neglect, the patient’s condition, existing contraindications and limitations.

Medical treatment

Specialized medicines are prescribed to treat the disease. Additionally, funds are prescribed:

• Muscle relaxants that help get rid of excessive muscle tension.
• Painkillers.
• A course of B vitamins that enhance the effect of drugs.
• Corticosteroids for severe attacks that do not respond to conventional remedies.

Physiotherapy

After the doctor finds out the reasons why a woman or a young girl has back pain in the lumbar region from below behind, what specifically causes this, he will decide what to do. It is strictly forbidden to prescribe any physiotherapy procedures for yourself.

If the cause of the disease is problems with the spinal column and back muscles, then as an addition to drug therapy, they often prescribe:

1. Massages if there is no inflammation of the muscle tissue.
2. Electrophoresis.
3. Magnetotherapy.
4. Laser therapy.
5. UHF.
6. exercise therapy (for strengthening the muscular corset)

Surgical intervention

Quite often, when a woman or a girl has pain in her lower back, lower back, they do not find out the cause, do not determine what it is, but simply drink painkillers. Thus, the disease that has appeared gradually passes into a neglected form, which is almost impossible to completely cure only with the help of medicines.

Then the only solution is the intervention of a surgeon.

Surgery is necessary in several cases:

• Severe injuries, fractures.
• Medical therapy used does not work.
• Inflammation of appendicitis.
• Diseases of internal organs in the acute stage, neoplasms.
• The presence of large hernias and protrusions that compress the nerves.
• Severe scoliotic deformity.

Prevention

A few simple rules will help maintain the health of the whole body and protect against the early development of serious diseases.

As a prevention of lower back pain, doctors advise:

• Observe the correct motor mode, corresponding to age and build.
• Regular exercise. Walking at an average pace every day and going to the pool several times a week are ideal.
• Weight tracking.
• Compliance with the drinking regime.
• Balanced diet, including vitamins and trace elements.
• Daily morning exercises will help you start your day and get rid of nighttime stiffness.
• Regular check-ups at least once a year. It is especially important to visit a gynecologist every six months if there have already been problems associated with the reproductive system or the woman is over 40 years old.

References

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