Is Your Back Pain a Sign of Kidney Deficiency? Symptoms and When to Seek Help

I'm not sure if it's kidney deficiency?

Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about a situation.
I previously worked part-time lifting heavy objects, and at that time, my posture was poor.
After finishing the lifting on that day, I felt something unusual around my lower back.
A few weeks later, I started to feel persistent soreness in the lower back area, and when I sit for a while and then stand up, my lower back feels very stiff.
Initially, I thought it was a muscle strain, but recently I noticed that it becomes sore immediately after masturbation.

1.
Is this what is referred to as "kidney deficiency"? I used to masturbate frequently without experiencing this issue, but it started after I lifted heavy objects.
2.
Do I need to go to the hospital for an examination?
Thank you for your response, doctor.

Mr. T, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/13

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

"Kidney deficiency" is a term used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, commonly understood as dysfunction of the endocrine system, kidney function, or sexual function.
However, from the perspective of evidence-based medicine, if you experience lower back pain due to lifting heavy objects, it may theoretically be related to fascial inflammation or muscle-ligament strain.
Of course, there are many differential diagnoses for lower back pain, including kidney stones, urinary tract infections, degenerative changes in the spine, herniated discs, work-related strains or sprains, shingles, thoracic diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, and various tumors.
Sexual activities, including masturbation, intercourse, and foreplay, can lead to muscle-ligament injuries or involuntary contractions if they are excessively vigorous or reach climax, potentially exacerbating pre-existing conditions or pain.
In theory, masturbation or sexual activity should not cause significant harm on their own.
Therefore, if you have any further questions, it is advisable to discuss them with your family physician or a urologist.

Reply Date: 2015/10/13

More Info

Back pain can indeed be a concerning symptom, and it’s important to understand its potential causes, especially when considering kidney health. Your experience of back pain, particularly in the lumbar region, could stem from various factors, including muscle strain, posture issues, or even kidney-related problems.
1. Understanding Back Pain and Kidney Health:
Back pain is often attributed to musculoskeletal issues, such as poor posture or lifting heavy objects incorrectly, which seems to align with your experience of discomfort after moving items. However, kidney-related pain typically presents differently. Kidney pain is usually felt in the flank area (the sides of the lower back) and may be accompanied by other symptoms like changes in urination, swelling, or systemic symptoms like fever. If your pain is localized to the lower back and is exacerbated by certain movements or positions, it is more likely related to muscle strain or spinal issues rather than kidney deficiency.

2. Is It Kidney Deficiency?:
The term "kidney deficiency" is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to describe a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and lower back pain. However, in Western medicine, kidney function is assessed through specific tests, including blood tests for creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), as well as urine tests for protein and other abnormalities. If your back pain is solely linked to physical activity and does not present with other systemic symptoms, it is less likely to be a sign of kidney deficiency.

3. When to Seek Medical Help:
Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider, especially if the pain persists or worsens. A thorough evaluation can help rule out any underlying conditions. You may want to consider seeing a primary care physician or a specialist in musculoskeletal disorders first. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, if necessary. If there are any signs of kidney involvement, such as changes in urination, swelling, or systemic symptoms, a referral to a nephrologist may be warranted.

4. Self-Care and Management:
In the meantime, consider implementing some self-care strategies. Applying heat to the affected area, practicing good posture, and engaging in gentle stretching or strengthening exercises can help alleviate muscle strain. Additionally, ensure you are staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet, as these factors can contribute to overall health and well-being.

5. Monitoring Symptoms:
Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in urination, the intensity of the pain, and any new symptoms that may arise. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the appropriate course of action.

In summary, while your back pain may not directly indicate kidney deficiency, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if they persist. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and help you manage any underlying issues effectively.

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