Left Side Back Pain: Is It a Kidney Issue or Something Else?

Q: Left Side Back Pain: Is It a Kidney Issue or Something Else?

Hello： In response to your question, there are many potential causes of lower back pain, which may be due to issues with nerves, muscles, tendons, skeletal joints, or kidney diseases (such as infections or stones). <br>If kidney or urinary tract problems are suspected to be causi

Is left flank pain a kidney problem?

Hello Doctor: About a year ago, I started experiencing pain in my left lower back.
Later, I consulted a urologist who suggested it might be a lumbar strain and prescribed some medications for the strain.
The pain did improve, although it still occurs occasionally.
Since I have been running regularly for the past year, I wondered if that could be the cause of the pain.
However, I haven't run recently, and the pain continues to persist and is getting worse.
Could this be related to my kidneys? Which specialist should I see? Additionally, I have noticed blood in my stool (not every time).
I was diagnosed with hemorrhoids six years ago and only took medication at that time.
Could the bleeding during bowel movements be due to the hemorrhoids, or is it related to my back pain? I would appreciate your guidance.
Thank you.

Jie Ke, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/11/29

Dr. Yang Jun reply Internal Medicine

Hello: In response to your question, there are many potential causes of lower back pain, which may be due to issues with nerves, muscles, tendons, skeletal joints, or kidney diseases (such as infections or stones).
If kidney or urinary tract problems are suspected to be causing the back pain, a urine test can be conducted to check for hematuria or pyuria.
If those tests return normal, as stated by the urologist, it may be due to a muscle strain.
For persistent pain, you may consult a rehabilitation specialist or orthopedic surgeon for further spinal joint examination or rehabilitation treatment.
Blood in the stool may be caused by hemorrhoids or rectal diseases, and it is essential to have a thorough examination by a colorectal surgeon to determine the cause.

Reply Date: 2005/11/29

More Info

Left side back pain can be a complex issue, and it is essential to consider various potential causes, including musculoskeletal problems, kidney issues, or other underlying conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing left side back pain for about a year, which initially improved with treatment for a muscle strain. However, the pain has persisted and worsened, even when you have not been running recently.
First, let's address the possibility of kidney-related issues. Kidney pain is typically felt in the flank area, which is located on the sides of the lower back, just above the hips. If the pain is sharp and associated with other symptoms such as blood in the urine, fever, or changes in urination patterns, it could indicate a kidney problem, such as a kidney stone or infection. However, if your kidney function tests and imaging studies (like ultrasound) have ruled out significant kidney issues, it is less likely that your back pain is directly related to your kidneys.

Given that you have a history of muscle strain and that the pain has persisted despite a lack of physical activity, it may be worthwhile to consider other musculoskeletal causes. Chronic back pain can result from various factors, including poor posture, muscle imbalances, or even stress. Since you mentioned that you have been running regularly, it is possible that your running technique or the type of shoes you wear could contribute to your discomfort. Additionally, if you have any underlying conditions such as scoliosis or degenerative disc disease, these could also lead to persistent back pain.

Regarding your concern about rectal bleeding during bowel movements, it is essential to address this issue separately. Since you have a history of hemorrhoids, it is quite possible that the bleeding is related to this condition. Hemorrhoids can cause bleeding, especially during bowel movements, and they can be exacerbated by straining or constipation. However, it is crucial to ensure that there are no other underlying causes of rectal bleeding, such as anal fissures or more serious gastrointestinal issues. If the bleeding persists or worsens, I would recommend consulting a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation.

In summary, your left side back pain may not necessarily be related to kidney issues, especially if previous evaluations have ruled out significant problems. It could be more related to musculoskeletal factors, and you might benefit from seeing a physical therapist or a specialist in musculoskeletal medicine. As for the rectal bleeding, it is advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider to ensure that your hemorrhoids are managed appropriately and to rule out any other potential causes.
Overall, it is essential to keep track of your symptoms and seek medical attention if there are any changes or if the pain or bleeding worsens. A multidisciplinary approach involving both musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal evaluations may provide you with the best insight into your health concerns.

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