Penile Pain and Lower Back Discomfort: Causes and Concerns

Pain in the penis with shifting locations and lower back pain?

Hello Doctor, I started experiencing frequent urination on December 22 of last year and sought medical treatment.
In January, the doctor diagnosed me with acute prostatitis.
My main symptoms include pain at the base of the penis, a feeling of bladder fullness, and difficulty urinating.
Last Saturday, after the doctor reviewed my blood and urine tests, as well as the ultrasound of my prostate and bladder, I mentioned that I sometimes experience slight difficulty urinating and pain at the base of my penis.
The doctor informed me that there were no stones and that my prostatitis might be resolved, so further visits were not necessary.
However, aside from occasional pain at the base of my penis, I sometimes experience lower back pain accompanied by pain in various areas of the penis during urination.
Could I possibly have a urinary tract stone? Can urinary tract stones cause prostatitis?

A Long, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/16

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

If there is a history of urinary tract stones or suspicion of stone issues, it is advisable to consult a urologist for a thorough examination.
Urinary stones typically do not cause prostatitis.
Additionally, even if tests indicate that there is no inflammation, it does not mean that your prostate is completely healthy; this could be a source of your occasional discomfort.
A healthy prostate is linked to overall bodily health.
To promote good pelvic circulation, it is important to avoid prolonged sitting or standing, drink plenty of water, and urinate frequently.
Strengthening pelvic floor muscles through exercises such as Kegel exercises or squats can also be beneficial; you can find various exercise routines on YouTube.
Furthermore, certain dietary choices can support prostate health, such as foods rich in zinc, including pumpkin seeds, seafood, and mushrooms, as well as cooked tomatoes.
You can look up more information online.

Reply Date: 2020/03/16

More Info

Understanding penile pain and lower back discomfort can be complex, especially when considering the interplay between various urological and musculoskeletal conditions. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing symptoms related to acute prostatitis, which is an inflammation of the prostate gland. This condition can indeed cause discomfort in the penile region, particularly at the base, as well as urinary symptoms like frequency, urgency, and difficulty urinating.

Potential Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Acute Prostatitis: As you mentioned, your doctor diagnosed you with acute prostatitis, which can lead to pain in the pelvic region, including the base of the penis and lower back. The inflammation can irritate surrounding tissues and nerves, leading to referred pain in these areas.

2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): While your doctor has indicated that you may not have a UTI, it’s worth noting that UTIs can also cause similar symptoms, including pelvic pain and discomfort during urination.
3. Urinary Stones: You asked about the possibility of urinary stones. While your recent tests did not indicate the presence of stones, it is important to note that urinary stones can cause significant pain, particularly if they obstruct the urinary tract. They can lead to symptoms such as severe pain in the lower back or flank, hematuria (blood in urine), and urinary frequency or urgency. However, urinary stones typically present with more acute and severe pain than what you have described.

4. Musculoskeletal Issues: The lower back pain you are experiencing could be related to musculoskeletal issues rather than urological ones. Poor posture, muscle strain, or even stress can lead to discomfort in the lower back, which may coincide with your urinary symptoms.

5. Nerve Irritation: Conditions affecting the lumbar spine, such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis, can lead to nerve irritation that may manifest as pain in the lower back and pelvic region, including the penis.

Concerns Regarding Your Symptoms
- Ongoing Pain: Persistent pain in the penile region and lower back, especially if it is worsening or accompanied by new symptoms, should be evaluated further. While your doctor has indicated that prostatitis may be resolving, ongoing pain could suggest that further investigation is warranted.

- Potential for Complications: Untreated or recurrent prostatitis can lead to complications, including chronic pelvic pain syndrome or even abscess formation. It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely.

- Follow-Up: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may consider additional imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to rule out any anatomical issues or complications.

Recommendations
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, as this can help flush out the urinary system and may alleviate some symptoms.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult your doctor before starting any new medication.

3. Physical Therapy: If musculoskeletal issues are suspected, physical therapy may help alleviate lower back pain through targeted exercises and stretches.

4. Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in pain intensity, urinary habits, or new symptoms. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider in assessing your condition.

5. Consultation with a Urologist: If your symptoms do not improve or if you have concerns about urinary stones or other urological issues, consider seeking a second opinion from a urologist.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to prostatitis, the presence of lower back pain and ongoing penile discomfort warrants further evaluation to rule out other potential causes. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and advocate for your health to ensure appropriate management of your symptoms.

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