Causes, when to see a doctor

Conditions that affect the muscles, bones, nerves, or organs can contribute to pain on the lower right side of the back. Causes range from strains and sprains to menstrual problems and kidney disease.

This article explores the possible causes of back pain on the lower right side.

It also covers some causes specific to females and males and explains when to contact a doctor.

Ovarian tumors can be cancerous or noncancerous. According to the American Cancer Society, cancerous ovarian tumors can cause back pain.

Cancerous and noncancerous tumors can have similar symptoms, including:

• abdominal pain
• pelvic pain
• gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, constipation, and bloating
• a quick feeling of fullness when eating
• difficulty eating
• frequent urge to urinate

When these symptoms occur as a result of cancerous ovarian tumors, they are usually persistent. If a person typically experiences any of these symptoms, the symptoms may become more severe or frequent when a cancerous tumor occurs.

Other symptoms of ovarian cancer are:

• upset stomach
• constipation
• pain during intercourse
• menstrual cycle changes
• swelling of the stomach alongside weight loss
• fatigue

A sprain occurs when a person overstretches or tears a ligament, whereas a strain is a torn tendon or muscle.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, strains and sprains are the one of the leading causes of acute back pain.

A person may experience a sprain or strain as a result of:

• lifting heavy objects or using improper lifting technique
• twisting or jerking their body awkwardly
• overstretching or not warming up properly before exercise
• falling

Back pain that results from a strain or sprain can range from mild to severe and may radiate into the buttocks. It can cause symptoms such as:

• aching, stiffness, or tenderness in the lower back
• difficulty standing or sitting upright
• muscle spasms in the lower back

The type of treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the symptoms.

Treatment

A person can treat mild sprains and strains at home with rest, ice packs or heat packs, and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

For people with more severe sprains and strains, a doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants and stronger pain relievers to help manage symptoms.

Other treatment options may include:

• physical therapy
• gentle massage
• stretching exercises
• electrical muscle stimulation
• surgery

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing or compression of the spinal canal, which is the area inside the spine that contains the spinal cord. Although it can develop anywhere along the spine, it most commonly affects the lower back.

This narrowing places pressure on the spinal cord, which can cause numbness and pain that radiates to the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

Treatment

Treatment options for spinal stenosis include:

• anti-inflammatory medications
• physical therapy
• steroid injections

Doctors may recommend surgery for severe cases of spinal stenosis.

Certain minerals can build up in the kidneys and form hard deposits, or stones. Kidney stones vary in shape, size, and mineral content.

Small kidney stones can leave the body via the urine without causing symptoms. However, larger stones may cause blockages that can lead to sharp pain, typically on only one side. This pain may radiate to the groin and lower abdomen.

Kidney stones can also cause symptoms such as:

• cloudy or bloody urine
• foul-smelling urine
• a frequent or urgent need to urinate
• a painful burning sensation while urinating
• fever and chills
• nausea and vomiting

People who are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones should contact a doctor right away.

Treatment

Treatment options for people with kidney stones include:

• drinking plenty of fluids to help stones pass more quickly
• taking prescription medications to ease pain and other symptoms
• undergoing kidney stone removal, which may involve various procedures, such as shock wave lithotripsy, cystoscopy, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy

Doctors may also strain the urine to catch the kidney stone for analysis.

UC is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the large intestine, or colon.

According to a 2020 study, UC and other forms of inflammatory bowel disease appear to have an association with sacroiliitis — inflammation in the pelvis that can cause low back pain.

Some other symptoms of UC are:

• appetite loss due to nausea
• a frequent need to have a bowel movement
• unexplained weight loss
• fatigue
• fever
• anemia

Learn more about UC and sacroiliitis.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for UC. The aim of treatment is to achieve remission, which is a sustained period in which a person has few or no symptoms.

Treatment options depend on the severity of a person’s symptoms but can include medications such as:

• aminosalicylates
• corticosteroids
• immunosuppressants
• biologic therapies

If treatment does not improve the symptoms, a doctor may recommend surgical removal of the person’s colon.

The appendix is a small organ that connects to the first section of the large intestine. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix that may occur as a result of a blockage or an infection.

Appendicitis typically causes pain that begins near the belly button and then moves lower and to the right. This pain can also radiate to the right side of the back.

Other symptoms of appendicitis include:

• bloating or excess gas
• swelling of the abdomen
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• constipation or diarrhea
• fever

Treatment

Appendicitis requires immediate medical care. People who think that they may have appendicitis should go to an emergency room immediately.

Treatment typically involves a procedure called an appendectomy, which is the surgical removal of the appendix.

Bacterial or viral infections that affect the urinary tract can move upstream into one or both kidneys. If a person does not receive treatment, a kidney infection can lead to serious complications such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, or sepsis.

Kidney infections can cause symptoms such as:

• pain in the back, side, or groin
• nausea and vomiting
• cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
• foul-smelling urine
• frequent urination
• a burning or painful sensation while urinating
• chills and fever

People with symptoms of a kidney infection should contact a doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment

Treatment for kidney infections usually involves a course of antibiotics. A doctor may also prescribe pain relievers to help ease a person’s symptoms.

Drinking plenty of water is important to prevent dehydration and fever.

Causes of pain in the lower right side of the back that are specific to females can include:

Period pain, or dysmenorrhea

“Dysmenorrhea” is the name for the pain a person can experience during their period. Although everyone experiences the symptoms of dysmenorrhea differently, the most common symptoms are:

• lower back pain
• pain and cramping in the lower abdomen
• pain that radiates down the legs

A person may also experience:

• nausea
• fatigue
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• headaches
• fainting

To treat the pain, a person can:

• take OTC pain relievers
• use heating pads
• massage the abdomen
• take a hot bath or shower

Learn more about lower back pain during a period.

Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that can develop in the wall of the uterus. Having them does not increase a person’s risk of developing uterine cancer.

Uterine fibroids can vary in size, and some people may not realize that they have any until a doctor detects them during a pelvic exam or an ultrasound.

Not everyone with uterine fibroids will have symptoms. Those who do may experience:

• lower back pain
• leg pain
• pain or pressure in the pelvic region
• frequent urination
• constipation
• pain or heavy bleeding during periods
• unusually long periods

People without symptoms may not require treatment.

Treatment options can include:

• OTC pain relievers
• hormonal birth control
• gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists or antagonists
• surgical procedures to remove fibroid growths, the lining of the uterus, or the entire uterus

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the endometrium — the lining of the uterus — grows in other parts of the body, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, and cervix.

Endometriosis can cause chronic pain in the lower back or pelvis.

A person who has endometriosis may also experience:

• painful cramps during menstruation that may worsen over time
• pain during or after vaginal intercourse
• pain during bowel movements or urination
• bleeding or spotting between periods
• diarrhea or constipation
• bloating
• nausea

There is currently no cure for endometriosis, so treatments focus on reducing symptoms and preventing further complications.

Treatment options for endometriosis include:

• OTC pain relievers
• hormonal birth control
• GnRH agonists
• surgical procedures to remove endometriosis tissue

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

PID is an infection that typically occurs when a sexually transmitted disease, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, spreads to the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes.

Symptoms of PID can vary in severity and may include:

• pain in the lower abdomen or back
• unusual or unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge
• pain during or after vaginal intercourse
• pain when urinating
• fever and chills
• nausea and vomiting

People with symptoms of PID should contact a doctor as soon as possible. Prompt treatment can help prevent or minimize scarring that can increase the risk of fertility problems and ectopic pregnancies.

Antibiotics can usually cure the bacterial infection that causes PID.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy

Some people experience pelvic pain during pregnancy. Pelvic pain can affect one or both sides of the lower back.

This pain may also affect the perineum or radiate to the thighs. It may become worse while a person is walking, standing up, or rolling onto their side.

A person may be able to reduce pelvic pain during pregnancy by:

• doing exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor
• stretching
• taking warm baths
• wearing flat, comfortable shoes
• avoiding standing for too long
• getting plenty of rest

People can also try applying ice or heat packs to help ease the pain.

OTC acetaminophen is generally safe to take during pregnancy. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any medications while pregnant.

Testicular torsion can cause back pain on the lower right side in males.

It occurs when the testicle rotates inside the scrotum, causing the spermatic cord to twist. A twisted spermatic cord can reduce or completely block blood flow to the testicle. This can cause irreversible damage.

Testicular torsion can cause the following symptoms:

• severe and unexpected pain in the testicle or groin
• pain that radiates to the right or left side of the back
• swelling of the scrotum
• nausea
• vomiting
• blood in the semen
• pain in the low abdomen

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency, and anyone who experiences these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

Treatment involves a surgical procedure to either untwist the spermatic cord or remove the testicle.

People with severe, persistent, or worsening lower back pain should consult a doctor right away.

A person should also seek medical attention if they have lower back pain along with any of the following symptoms:

• painful urination
• cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
• stools containing blood or pus
• fever
• nausea
• vomiting
• pain during or after sex
• severe groin pain
• irregular periods

Lower back pain is very common. Possible causes of lower back pain on the right side include sprains and strains, kidney stones, infections, and conditions that affect the intestines or reproductive organs.

People should consult a doctor if they experience lower back pain that does not improve with rest or affects their daily life.

Causes, when to see a doctor

Conditions that affect the muscles, bones, nerves, or organs can contribute to pain on the lower right side of the back. Causes range from strains and sprains to menstrual problems and kidney disease.

This article explores the possible causes of back pain on the lower right side.

It also covers some causes specific to females and males and explains when to contact a doctor.

Ovarian tumors can be cancerous or noncancerous. According to the American Cancer Society, cancerous ovarian tumors can cause back pain.

Cancerous and noncancerous tumors can have similar symptoms, including:

• abdominal pain
• pelvic pain
• gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, constipation, and bloating
• a quick feeling of fullness when eating
• difficulty eating
• frequent urge to urinate

When these symptoms occur as a result of cancerous ovarian tumors, they are usually persistent. If a person typically experiences any of these symptoms, the symptoms may become more severe or frequent when a cancerous tumor occurs.

Other symptoms of ovarian cancer are:

• upset stomach
• constipation
• pain during intercourse
• menstrual cycle changes
• swelling of the stomach alongside weight loss
• fatigue

A sprain occurs when a person overstretches or tears a ligament, whereas a strain is a torn tendon or muscle.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, strains and sprains are the one of the leading causes of acute back pain.

A person may experience a sprain or strain as a result of:

• lifting heavy objects or using improper lifting technique
• twisting or jerking their body awkwardly
• overstretching or not warming up properly before exercise
• falling

Back pain that results from a strain or sprain can range from mild to severe and may radiate into the buttocks. It can cause symptoms such as:

• aching, stiffness, or tenderness in the lower back
• difficulty standing or sitting upright
• muscle spasms in the lower back

The type of treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the symptoms.

Treatment

A person can treat mild sprains and strains at home with rest, ice packs or heat packs, and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

For people with more severe sprains and strains, a doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants and stronger pain relievers to help manage symptoms.

Other treatment options may include:

• physical therapy
• gentle massage
• stretching exercises
• electrical muscle stimulation
• surgery

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing or compression of the spinal canal, which is the area inside the spine that contains the spinal cord. Although it can develop anywhere along the spine, it most commonly affects the lower back.

This narrowing places pressure on the spinal cord, which can cause numbness and pain that radiates to the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

Treatment

Treatment options for spinal stenosis include:

• anti-inflammatory medications
• physical therapy
• steroid injections

Doctors may recommend surgery for severe cases of spinal stenosis.

Certain minerals can build up in the kidneys and form hard deposits, or stones. Kidney stones vary in shape, size, and mineral content.

Small kidney stones can leave the body via the urine without causing symptoms. However, larger stones may cause blockages that can lead to sharp pain, typically on only one side. This pain may radiate to the groin and lower abdomen.

Kidney stones can also cause symptoms such as:

• cloudy or bloody urine
• foul-smelling urine
• a frequent or urgent need to urinate
• a painful burning sensation while urinating
• fever and chills
• nausea and vomiting

People who are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones should contact a doctor right away.

Treatment

Treatment options for people with kidney stones include:

• drinking plenty of fluids to help stones pass more quickly
• taking prescription medications to ease pain and other symptoms
• undergoing kidney stone removal, which may involve various procedures, such as shock wave lithotripsy, cystoscopy, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy

Doctors may also strain the urine to catch the kidney stone for analysis.

UC is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the large intestine, or colon.

According to a 2020 study, UC and other forms of inflammatory bowel disease appear to have an association with sacroiliitis — inflammation in the pelvis that can cause low back pain.

Some other symptoms of UC are:

• appetite loss due to nausea
• a frequent need to have a bowel movement
• unexplained weight loss
• fatigue
• fever
• anemia

Learn more about UC and sacroiliitis.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for UC. The aim of treatment is to achieve remission, which is a sustained period in which a person has few or no symptoms.

Treatment options depend on the severity of a person’s symptoms but can include medications such as:

• aminosalicylates
• corticosteroids
• immunosuppressants
• biologic therapies

If treatment does not improve the symptoms, a doctor may recommend surgical removal of the person’s colon.

The appendix is a small organ that connects to the first section of the large intestine. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix that may occur as a result of a blockage or an infection.

Appendicitis typically causes pain that begins near the belly button and then moves lower and to the right. This pain can also radiate to the right side of the back.

Other symptoms of appendicitis include:

• bloating or excess gas
• swelling of the abdomen
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• constipation or diarrhea
• fever

Treatment

Appendicitis requires immediate medical care. People who think that they may have appendicitis should go to an emergency room immediately.

Treatment typically involves a procedure called an appendectomy, which is the surgical removal of the appendix.

Bacterial or viral infections that affect the urinary tract can move upstream into one or both kidneys. If a person does not receive treatment, a kidney infection can lead to serious complications such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, or sepsis.

Kidney infections can cause symptoms such as:

• pain in the back, side, or groin
• nausea and vomiting
• cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
• foul-smelling urine
• frequent urination
• a burning or painful sensation while urinating
• chills and fever

People with symptoms of a kidney infection should contact a doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment

Treatment for kidney infections usually involves a course of antibiotics. A doctor may also prescribe pain relievers to help ease a person’s symptoms.

Drinking plenty of water is important to prevent dehydration and fever.

Causes of pain in the lower right side of the back that are specific to females can include:

Period pain, or dysmenorrhea

“Dysmenorrhea” is the name for the pain a person can experience during their period. Although everyone experiences the symptoms of dysmenorrhea differently, the most common symptoms are:

• lower back pain
• pain and cramping in the lower abdomen
• pain that radiates down the legs

A person may also experience:

• nausea
• fatigue
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• headaches
• fainting

To treat the pain, a person can:

• take OTC pain relievers
• use heating pads
• massage the abdomen
• take a hot bath or shower

Learn more about lower back pain during a period.

Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that can develop in the wall of the uterus. Having them does not increase a person’s risk of developing uterine cancer.

Uterine fibroids can vary in size, and some people may not realize that they have any until a doctor detects them during a pelvic exam or an ultrasound.

Not everyone with uterine fibroids will have symptoms. Those who do may experience:

• lower back pain
• leg pain
• pain or pressure in the pelvic region
• frequent urination
• constipation
• pain or heavy bleeding during periods
• unusually long periods

People without symptoms may not require treatment.

Treatment options can include:

• OTC pain relievers
• hormonal birth control
• gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists or antagonists
• surgical procedures to remove fibroid growths, the lining of the uterus, or the entire uterus

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the endometrium — the lining of the uterus — grows in other parts of the body, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, and cervix.

Endometriosis can cause chronic pain in the lower back or pelvis.

A person who has endometriosis may also experience:

• painful cramps during menstruation that may worsen over time
• pain during or after vaginal intercourse
• pain during bowel movements or urination
• bleeding or spotting between periods
• diarrhea or constipation
• bloating
• nausea

There is currently no cure for endometriosis, so treatments focus on reducing symptoms and preventing further complications.

Treatment options for endometriosis include:

• OTC pain relievers
• hormonal birth control
• GnRH agonists
• surgical procedures to remove endometriosis tissue

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

PID is an infection that typically occurs when a sexually transmitted disease, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, spreads to the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes.

Symptoms of PID can vary in severity and may include:

• pain in the lower abdomen or back
• unusual or unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge
• pain during or after vaginal intercourse
• pain when urinating
• fever and chills
• nausea and vomiting

People with symptoms of PID should contact a doctor as soon as possible. Prompt treatment can help prevent or minimize scarring that can increase the risk of fertility problems and ectopic pregnancies.

Antibiotics can usually cure the bacterial infection that causes PID.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy

Some people experience pelvic pain during pregnancy. Pelvic pain can affect one or both sides of the lower back.

This pain may also affect the perineum or radiate to the thighs. It may become worse while a person is walking, standing up, or rolling onto their side.

A person may be able to reduce pelvic pain during pregnancy by:

• doing exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor
• stretching
• taking warm baths
• wearing flat, comfortable shoes
• avoiding standing for too long
• getting plenty of rest

People can also try applying ice or heat packs to help ease the pain.

OTC acetaminophen is generally safe to take during pregnancy. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any medications while pregnant.

Testicular torsion can cause back pain on the lower right side in males.

It occurs when the testicle rotates inside the scrotum, causing the spermatic cord to twist. A twisted spermatic cord can reduce or completely block blood flow to the testicle. This can cause irreversible damage.

Testicular torsion can cause the following symptoms:

• severe and unexpected pain in the testicle or groin
• pain that radiates to the right or left side of the back
• swelling of the scrotum
• nausea
• vomiting
• blood in the semen
• pain in the low abdomen

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency, and anyone who experiences these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

Treatment involves a surgical procedure to either untwist the spermatic cord or remove the testicle.

People with severe, persistent, or worsening lower back pain should consult a doctor right away.

A person should also seek medical attention if they have lower back pain along with any of the following symptoms:

• painful urination
• cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
• stools containing blood or pus
• fever
• nausea
• vomiting
• pain during or after sex
• severe groin pain
• irregular periods

Lower back pain is very common. Possible causes of lower back pain on the right side include sprains and strains, kidney stones, infections, and conditions that affect the intestines or reproductive organs.

People should consult a doctor if they experience lower back pain that does not improve with rest or affects their daily life.

Lower back pain: what to do? | clinic of physical therapy 401 (Minsk)

The lower back is called the lower back – from the area where the ribs end to the coccyx (the lowest protruding vertebra). Most often, when a person has a “back pain”, it is precisely the lower back that is being discussed. And if 20 years ago, lower back pain bothered mainly the elderly, but now quite young patients turn to specialists for help with their backs.

Why does the lower back suffer so often? The fact is that the center of gravity of the human body is located precisely at the level of the lumbar spine, and it accounts for almost all the load when walking. This is one of the disadvantages of upright walking – vertebrates moving on 4 limbs do not have such ailments.

Strengthening the lumbar spine at home

Causes of lower back pain – what you need to know

Statistical studies tell us about the frequency of causative factors of pain in the lower back as follows:

• 91% of calls are problems with the spinal column and the muscular frame of the back.
• 5% of complaints are related to diseases of the urinary system.
• 4% – pathologies of other organs (reproductive system, gastrointestinal tract).

Types of low back pain

Back problems often appear unexpectedly – like a bolt from the blue. Such acute pain in the lower back is called “lumbago”, and earlier you could hear the term “lumbago”. The name itself speaks of the sharp, shooting nature of sensations. During an attack of lumbago, any movement only intensifies the torment, and the patient involuntarily finds himself in a constrained position, freezes in one position. Lumbago lasts for several minutes and then subsides.

If the pain is prolonged, aching, then we are talking about lumbalgia. These are low-intensity, but constant pain sensations in the lumbar region, which are aggravated during exercise or hypothermia.

And there is such a state when there is no pain in the back itself, but the person feels stiffness, discomfort. In this case, additional diagnostics from specialists is also required. Depending on how lower back pain manifests itself, approaches to their treatment also differ.

Low back pain as a symptom of disease?

By itself, back pain can signal very different pathological conditions, and it is often not so easy to understand the true cause.

For example, there is such a thing as displaced pains. It denotes a situation when the back hurts on the right, left or lower back – and the person thinks that the cause of his torment lies in the spine. However, after research, it turns out that one of the internal organs (kidneys, intestines or organs of the reproductive system) is to blame. The human body is very complex and confusing. Let’s look at some of the possible root causes of discomfort in the lumbar region of the back.

Diseases of the musculoskeletal system that cause back pain

The relationship between diseases of the spinal column and back pain is direct and unequivocal. It was previously mentioned that spinal pathologies are the most common cause of back pain and account for over 90% of all referrals.

Pathologies of the spine

Protrusions and hernias of the intervertebral discs rightfully occupy the first place in terms of prevalence. With such destructive pathologies, the intervertebral disc first slightly shifts outward, prolapses (disc protrusion), and with the progression of the disease, the integrity of the disc is violated in such a way that the inner part (nucleus pulposus) goes outside the fibrous ring surrounding it.

Protrusions most often occur as a result of traumatic injury to the disc or osteochondrosis.

Another painful consequence of osteochondrosis is compression and pinching of the sciatic nerve. The pain is sharp, shooting – lumbago.

This pressure can cause the nerve to become inflamed. The common name for such an ailment is radiculitis, and if the inflammation concerns the sciatic nerve, then it is designated by the more specific term “sciatica”. Pain in sciatica is concentrated in the lumbar region and spreads to the buttock, thigh along the sciatic nerve.

Now about the disease that leads to the development of all of the above – osteochondrosis. Lower back pain with osteochondrosis is a sharp shooting or dull aching character. With the development of the disease (2nd and 3rd degree), neurological symptoms join – numbness, goosebumps in the lower extremities. In the morning, a person is disturbed by a feeling of stiffness. The work of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, reproductive system is disrupted.

The main task in the treatment of osteochondrosis is to relieve pain and stop the destruction of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs. It is important to understand that the earlier treatment is started, the better the prognosis.

Diseases of the kidneys, urinary tract and back pain

You may have heard. that back pain is kidney disease. In some cases, this is indeed the case. We recommend that you consult a urologist if you are concerned about the following symptoms:

• Frequent painful urination, discoloration of urine.
• Deterioration of health, indifference to life.
• Hyperthermia – elevated temperature.
• Loss of appetite, nausea.
• Arterial hypertension.

Pain is variable. For example, during an exacerbation of chronic pyelonephritis, the pain seems to pull and encircle the lower back, and renal colic is acute and short-term.

It is characteristic that pain sensations in kidney pathology are concentrated on one side – since only one kidney is involved in the inflammatory process. This is how a kidney calculus (stone) appears in the kidney or ureter.

Another important diagnostic criterion is that in nephropathies the intensity of pain does not change with a change in body position. However, as you understand, it is better to give the right to establish an accurate diagnosis to a specialist.

Excessive exercise and lower back pain

Our spine is adapted to physical stress. Therefore, the appearance of pain in the back after going to the gym should alert you. Normally, pain in the back muscles due to the accumulation of lactic acid disappears within 1-2 hours, and if this does not happen, pathology should be suspected.

Pain in the spine after playing sports can be caused by old injuries or hidden problems with the intervertebral discs, such as protrusion of the discs. In this case, the exclusion of physical exercises will not lead to healing, but will only hide the course of a destructive disease of the spine.

In addition, back pain after exercise is characteristic of myofascial syndrome. It is not a threat to life, but significantly reduces its quality.

At the same time, physical activity can also contribute to the disappearance of back pain – for example, an overweight patient is more likely to get rid of back pain as a result of losing weight.

Remember that constant and intermittent low back pain after exercise should be a reason to see a doctor.

Hypothermia and lower back pain

Prolonged exposure to cold air, in the wind is fraught with hypothermia. If the lower back was not protected from harmful environmental factors, such an uncomfortable condition as myositis may occur. This is called inflammation of the skeletal muscles. The pain is aching in nature, and on palpation (palpation) there is a thickening of the back muscles.

Features of back pain in women and the mechanism of their occurrence

It’s no secret that women’s well-being is closely related to their hormonal levels, which undergo cardinal changes not only in the course of life, but also every month. Therefore, every month in a certain phase of the menstrual cycle, women may experience nagging pain in the lower back. Alas, this is a variant of the physiological norm.

Even during pregnancy, discomfort in the lower back is considered normal – if it disappears after rest. After all, significant hormonal changes occur in a woman’s body during this period, the uterus expands – which changes the deflection in the lower back and shifts the center of gravity. And besides, the weight of a pregnant woman naturally increases, which also puts an increased load on the spine.

If we talk about other causes of pain in the lumbar region in women, pain in the back may indicate an approaching menopause. This is due to a decrease in estrogen levels and a change in a number of other sex hormones.

Therefore, the diagnosis of the causes of back pain in women should be carried out especially carefully – so as not to miss important symptoms of serious diseases and not to write off the pathological causes of back pain in women. Indeed, among such formidable diseases there may be a cyst, apoplexy or inflammation of the ovary, and even tumors of the cervix. Ignoring and untimely diagnosis of such conditions can be dangerous with infertility and critical complications.

Symptoms of which diseases can cause back pain

Symptoms, nature of pain	Presumptive diagnosis by MRI
Lower back pain when coughing, sneezing, bending over.	Protrusion (protrusion) of the intervertebral disc L1/L2 (L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5) of the vertebra
Numbness, tingling not only in the back, but also in the buttocks, lower extremities.	Symmetrical dorsal (posterior) protrusion of L1/L2 (L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5) vertebral discs
Weakness in the muscles of the legs, motor reflexes worsen.	Dorsal (posterior) median protrusion of L1/L2, L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5 discs
Sharp, shooting pains, the patient cannot even straighten up during the attack.	Circular protrusions of L1/L2, L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5 vertebrae
Prolonged stay in one position causes aching pain.	Diffuse protrusions of L1/L2, L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5 vertebrae
Symptoms may be absent for a long time, discovered incidentally.	Median disc protrusion L1/L2, L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5 vertebrae
Sharp, stabbing pain in the lower back – also called “lumbago”.	Herniated discs L1/L2, L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5 vertebrae
Pain in the leg extending below the knee, tingling sensation in the leg.	Dorsal disc herniation of L1/L2, L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5 vertebrae
Often asymptomatic, patients report only mild discomfort.	Schmorl’s hernia of L1, L2, L3, L4, L5 vertebrae
The work of the intestines, bladder, reproductive system is disturbed.	Paramedian disc herniation of L1/L2, L2/L3, L3/L4, L4/L5 vertebrae
Asymptomatic in the early stages. Pain occurs when the tumor spreads beyond the disc.	Hemangiolipoma and hemangioma in the L1 vertebral body (L2, L3, L4, L5)
Pain depends on the degree of displacement of the vertebra. If there have been changes in the joints, movement disorders are noted.	Retrolisthesis and antelisthesis L1 vertebrae (L2, L3, L4, L5)
Pain is periodic at first, then becomes constant. aggravated by physical exertion.	Ventral wedge-shaped deformity of the L1 vertebral body (L2, L3, L4, L5)
Aching pain in the lower back, left or right, along the spine. Numbness, feeling of “goosebumps”. Muscle tension.	MR picture, signs of degenerative-dystrophic changes (osteochondrosis) of the lumbar spine
P sharp pain from exertion or careless movement. Change in gait, dysfunction of the genitourinary system.	Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine 1st degree (2nd degree, 3rd degree)
Pain in the buttocks and legs, discomfort from long sitting on a chair and long walking.	Spondylarthrosis of the lumbar spine 1st degree (2nd degree, 3rd degree)

What should I do if I have back pain?

If pain symptoms in the back in the lumbar region do not go away and do not decrease within 3 days, you should consult a doctor. What to do before visiting the doctor?

What you can do yourself for back pain

• If the cause of pain is unknown:

– measure the temperature to detect inflammation in the body.
– identify concomitant symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea or other)
– call a doctor at home or go to the emergency room.

• If the cause of the pain is known (bruise, sprain or lower back injury):

– Take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as diclofenac, ibuprofen or another.
– apply cold locally, this will help reduce swelling and dull soreness.
– tighten the lumbar region tightly with a towel or orthopedic belt to fix the injured area in one position.
– consult a doctor for a full diagnosis and determination of further treatment tactics.

What not to do with lower back pain

• In no case should you heat the painful area of ​​the back! Heat will increase blood flow and, if there is inflammation, worsen the situation: increase pain and lead to the spread of the infectious process. For the same reason, baths and saunas should be excluded.
• You can not relieve pain for a long time with persistent and unexplained problems with the back. Ignoring the root cause can only aggravate the course of the disease and lead to serious complications.
• Do not try to straighten the vertebrae or rub the back roughly. Without diagnosis, such actions can provoke displacement of the vertebrae and cause unnecessary additional trauma.

Which doctor to contact for pain in the lumbar region

It happens that a person would be happy to go to a specialist – but does not know which doctor to contact with a complaint of pain in the lower back. Let’s bring some clarity to this issue.

First of all, you should make an appointment with a general practitioner. He will conduct a differential diagnosis and determine which doctor you should continue treatment with. It could be:

• Neurologist – for neurological symptoms and involvement of nerves in the process.
• Urologist – if diseases of the urinary system (kidneys) are suspected.
• Gynecologist – for the treatment of diseases of the female reproductive system.

According to the indications, a general blood test (CBC) and a general urinalysis (CAM), X-ray examination of the spine (in particular, MRI), ultrasound of the pelvic organs, kidneys and other studies can be prescribed.

It is important to remember that self-medication and other home remedies for low back pain are a waste of money and time. Moreover, by delaying the trip to a specialist, you run the risk of acquiring an advanced form of the disease, thereby dooming yourself to a long, expensive, and often less successful (than in the early stages) treatment.

How to cure lower back pain

How to cure lower back pain: basic methods of therapy

You naturally may have a question: if self-treatment is not effective, then how to cure back pain? In the arsenal of a competent specialist there are many methods, including both conservative and surgical treatment.

Conservative treatment consists of the following items:

• Taking anti-inflammatory (NSAID) and pain medications by mouth and topically.
• Physiotherapy (shock wave therapy, acupuncture).
• Kinesiotherapy.
• Therapeutic massage.
• Therapeutic exercise and gymnastics.

Physiotherapeutic procedures and massage must be carried out after the acute phase of the disease, when the pain syndrome is relieved.

Surgical treatment is indicated in advanced cases of spinal diseases, when conservative methods fail to achieve any significant result. However, with timely diagnosis and correctly prescribed treatment, it is possible to postpone or completely avoid the need for surgical interventions.

Prevention of back pain

As a rule, pain in the back and lower back arises from a careless attitude towards one’s health. After all, a sedentary lifestyle, burdened by sedentary work and forced to stay in one position for a long time, is typical for many of us. No less harmful are excessive physical exertion without preparation (stretching), lifting weights with the wrong position of the back. It is not surprising that the majority of the world’s population is faced with lower back pain.

Doctor’s advice for preventing back pain:

• Maintain good posture and keep your back straight.
• Avoid awkward postures in the workplace. A small pillow can be placed under the lower back to support the back. Try it!
• When sitting at the table for a long time, it is recommended to get up from time to time (every hour), ideally – to do a joint warm-up, or you can just walk.
• It is advisable to sleep on an orthopedic mattress, it is quite hard and, at the same time, elastic.
• Start the day with exercises to strengthen the muscles of the back and core.

How to lift weights correctly?

If you need to pick up and carry something heavy, then you should do it by bending your knees, not your back. That is, you first need to sit down, take the load, and then straighten your knees, leaving the line of the back straight.

Lower back pain: what to do?

Lower back pain: what to do?

Now that you have read about the most common causes of low back pain, know what you need to know and what to do, the question arises – where to turn? Definitely, when choosing a clinic, preference should be given to the medical center where you can be examined by different specialists in sequence. That is, there will be no need to go to the other end of the city for additional diagnostics, and a full-fledged comprehensive plan for the treatment of back pain in the lumbar region will be drawn up in one place.

Equally important is the qualification of doctors and the availability of appropriate equipment. After all, back pain in osteochondrosis and myositis require different approaches to therapy.

At Physical Therapy Clinic 401 in Minsk , we offer you the experience of our specialists, which they have collected and embodied in the Healthy Lower Back program, thanks to which you can move again without pain and do what you love, or simply forget about the problem that haunted you many years.

Right back pain relief

Right back pain relief

MEDICINE

• Specify disease
• Alphabet of Diseases

Nerve pain but-muscular

• Pain in bones and joints
• Neck pain
• Migraine
• Back pain
• Menstrual pain
• Head pain
• Chronic pelvic pain
• groin

Back pain on the right side is one of the most common symptoms that patients come to the doctor with. It may vary in nature and intensity. High-quality anesthesia involves the selection of medicines and procedures that can not only improve the patient’s well-being, but also affect the main pathogenetic factor in the occurrence of pain.

REASONS

Pain in the right side behind the back can occur against the background of various pathologies. Most often this is:

• Curvature of the spine
  It occurs on the background of injuries, tuberculosis, degenerative bone diseases, incorrect sitting posture and the like. Pain on the right side under the ribs from behind from the back progresses against the background of constant compression of one half of the body with violations of posture or due to the involvement of muscles in the pathological process.
• Dislocation of the intervertebral discs
  Such pain in the back in the ribs on the back on the right occurs after surgical interventions on the spine, injuries, infectious lesions of the corresponding localization. The symptom may be provoked by congenital developmental anomalies.
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
  Pain in the right hypochondrium, radiating to the back, often accompanies acute or chronic cholecystitis, stomach cancer, inflammation of the pancreas.
• Urolithiasis
  The presence of kidney stones, their active displacement often causes back pain on the right under the ribs behind.
• Gynecological diseases
  Inflammatory processes, tumors and cysts are manifested by the progression of the corresponding symptom. For this pathology, pain in the right side from the back or left side is considered characteristic, depending on the localization of the pathological process.

Pregnancy, the postpartum period, or even ordinary ovulation is often accompanied by such unpleasant sensations. Back pain on the right side of the lower back sometimes spreads to the abdomen, can radiate to the leg (more typical for spinal injuries).

High-intensity pain under the right shoulder blade from the back in some cases indicate the development of an atypical form of myocardial infarction. In this situation, it is quite difficult to quickly establish the correct diagnosis due to the non-standard localization of the pain syndrome.

Pain on the right under the scapula from the back, which is aggravated by inhalation, often accompanies pathology of the respiratory system. Especially if the pleura is involved in the process. In such cases, discomfort can be localized both at the site of the lesion and spread throughout the patient’s back. It all depends on the characteristics of the course of the disease in a particular patient.

PAIN AND ANESTHESIS

Proper pain relief involves more than just taking analgesics. It is important to establish the root cause of the corresponding symptom, and only then carry out treatment. Cardiac pathology requires a completely different therapy compared to lung diseases or neurological diseases.

Getting rid of back pain in almost all cases has several common points. To eliminate it, you can use:

• Medications
  Mainly NSAIDs (ibuprofen, paracetamol and others) or antispasmodics (papaverine, drotaverine). If the pain in the right back of the lower back is caused by a malignant neoplasm or a serious injury, then narcotic analgesics are used.
• Manual therapy
  Massage and special exercises are effective for lesions of the musculoskeletal system, when the main pathogenetic factor of the pain syndrome is muscle spasm and compression of the nerve roots.
• Acupuncture
  A technique based on the impact on special sensitive points located on the human body. This contributes to the reflex relaxation of the muscles and the reduction of pain.
• Physiotherapy
  Myostimulation, ultrasonic therapy, magnetic field effect favorably affects the patient’s well-being and reduces back pain.

The choice of a specific technique depends on the characteristics of each individual case. You must first consult with your doctor.

Need a personal consultation?

Our specialists will be happy to answer all your questions!

Application of ANMS “Mercury” for back pain on the right

If the pain syndrome is chronic and requires continuous treatment, the Mercury apparatus is the best choice. It is a generator of electric current of a given strength. It is classified as a portable physiotherapy apparatus, which is ideal for use both at home and in a hospital or clinic.

Local application of electrical impulses can significantly reduce the severity of pain syndrome of almost any origin. “Mercury” can be used in the complex therapy of various diseases of the musculoskeletal system and internal organs.

The main positive effects of the device, which determine the quality relief from back pain, are:

• Strengthening microcirculation with vasodilatation.
• Normalization of metabolism and acceleration of metabolism.
• activation of regenerative processes in the affected area.
• Increased muscle tone.
• Positive effect on bone tissue.

An important advantage of the device “Mercury” is its compactness and ease of use. Effective pain relief now does not require a lot of time and visits to medical institutions. It is enough to choose the optimal mode of action on the body and be treated without drugs, or with minimal dosages of painkillers.

*The black electrode should be located on the pain area, the red electrode should be symmetrical

Application of AUZT “Delta Combi” for back pain on the right

Application of ENMS OMT “Phoenix” for back pain on the right

*The black electrode should be located on the pain area, the red electrode should be symmetrical

The use of AMT “Vega Plus” for back pain on the right

Surge currents

Mercury

Neuromuscular Stimulator

18 720
20 800

Pulse currents

Ultrasound therapy

Delta Combi

Ultrasound Therapy Unit

22 320
24 800

Magnetotherapy

Vega Plus

Magnetic therapy device

22 680
25 200

Surge currents

Advanced

Phoenix

Electrical stimulator of the neuromuscular system of the pelvic organs

20 880
23 200

Manufactured by order of the STL Company.