Right-Sided Abdominal Pain: Causes and Treatment Options - Orthopedics

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Right-sided abdominal pain can be a complex issue, as it may stem from various underlying conditions. Given your description of the pain being located around the level of the navel, approximately 10 to 15 centimeters to the right, and the presence of irregular sharp pain that has been ongoing since August, it is essential to consider several potential causes.


Possible Causes
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: The pain you describe could be related to musculoskeletal problems, particularly if you have experienced any recent injuries or strain. Conditions like muscle strain, ligament sprain, or even issues with the spine, such as a herniated disc, can lead to referred pain in the abdominal area. The fact that you have been diagnosed with some narrowing in the spinal canal that may be compressing a nerve suggests that this could be a contributing factor.

2. Nerve Pain (Neuropathy): The irregular sharp pain you mentioned could indeed be neuropathic in nature. Conditions like sciatica, which is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, can lead to pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg, but it can also manifest as localized pain in the abdomen. The absence of leg weakness or numbness is a positive sign, but it does not completely rule out nerve involvement.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Although your pain is more localized, it’s still important to consider gastrointestinal causes. Conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, or even gallbladder disease can present with right-sided abdominal pain. However, these typically come with additional symptoms like fever, nausea, or changes in bowel habits, which you have not reported.

4. Kidney Issues: Right-sided kidney stones or infections can also cause pain in the right side of the abdomen. This pain often radiates to the back or groin and may be accompanied by urinary symptoms.

5. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the abdomen can be referred from other areas, such as the pelvis or the thoracic region. For instance, issues with the liver or gallbladder can cause pain that is felt in the right upper quadrant.


Treatment Options
1. Physical Therapy: Since you have already started rehabilitation exercises, continuing with physical therapy may help alleviate some of the pain. A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises to strengthen the core and back muscles, which may relieve pressure on the nerves.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) can help manage inflammation and pain. If these are not effective, your doctor may consider prescribing stronger medications or nerve pain medications like gabapentin.

3. Diagnostic Imaging: If your symptoms persist or worsen, further imaging studies such as an MRI of the lumbar spine may be warranted to assess for any structural issues that could be contributing to your pain.

4. Alternative Therapies: Since acupuncture did not yield results for you, other alternative therapies such as chiropractic care or massage therapy may be beneficial in managing pain and improving mobility.

5. Consultation with Specialists: If the pain continues to be a significant issue, it may be worthwhile to consult with a pain management specialist or a neurologist who can provide additional insights into nerve-related pain.


Conclusion
In summary, right-sided abdominal pain can arise from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, nerve pain, gastrointestinal problems, and kidney conditions. Given your history and ongoing symptoms, it is crucial to continue working closely with your healthcare providers to explore these possibilities. Keeping a detailed record of your symptoms, including any triggers or patterns, can also aid in diagnosis and treatment. If your pain does not improve or worsens, seeking further evaluation from a larger medical facility may be necessary to ensure comprehensive care.