Kidney Pain vs. Back Pain: What You Need to Know

Kidney pain or lower back pain?

I have a habit of jogging, but recently I have experienced pain on the left side of my abdomen, near the waist (slightly in front of the left kidney) after running just a few laps.
It takes about 10 minutes of deep breathing for the pain to subside.
This used to happen only occasionally, but it has occurred twice this week.
Could this possibly be a kidney issue?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/28

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Based on your description, the most likely diagnosis is an abdominal muscle strain.
With appropriate rest for the abdominal muscles, recovery should be possible.
If you are concerned about kidney issues, another possibility is kidney stones; however, kidney stones are typically accompanied by hematuria and would usually cause pain not just after exercise but also at other times.
Regardless, further examination is necessary to confirm any diagnosis.
Therefore, if symptoms persist, it would be advisable to consult a family medicine specialist.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2017/05/28

More Info

Understanding the distinction between kidney pain and back pain is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Kidney pain typically presents as a deep, dull ache in the flank area, which is the region on either side of the lower back, just above the hips. This pain may be accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in urination, fever, nausea, or vomiting, which could indicate a kidney infection or other renal issues. On the other hand, back pain is often associated with muscle strain, ligament sprains, or issues related to the spine, such as herniated discs or arthritis.
In your case, the pain you are experiencing on the left side near your waist, especially after running, could be indicative of several conditions. Given that you mentioned the pain requires deep breathing for relief, it could suggest a muscular issue, such as a strain or overuse injury, particularly if you have recently increased your running intensity or duration. However, the fact that this pain has occurred multiple times in a short period raises the question of whether there might be an underlying issue with your kidneys.

Kidney-related pain can sometimes be mistaken for back pain, especially if the discomfort is located in the lower back or flank area. If the pain is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in urination (e.g., frequency, urgency, or the presence of blood), it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to assess the kidneys for any abnormalities, such as stones, cysts, or signs of infection.

Additionally, the presence of bubbles in your urine, as mentioned in previous queries, can sometimes indicate proteinuria, which may suggest kidney issues. If you are experiencing this symptom alongside your pain, it is essential to discuss it with your doctor, as it could provide valuable information regarding your renal health.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to muscle strain from running, the recurrent nature of the pain and its location warrants further investigation to rule out any potential kidney problems. It is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely and consult with a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing any underlying conditions effectively.

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