How to tell the difference between kidney pain and back pain

 The kidneys remove waste products and excess fluid from the bloodstream. These two organs sit on either side of the body just below the rib cage. The kidneys rest against the back muscles, which can make it difficult to tell the difference between kidney pain and back pain.

When trying to determine whether the pain is coming from the back or kidneys, people need to take into account:

• the location of the pain
• the type and severity of the pain
• any accompanying symptoms

In this article, we discuss the main characteristics and causes of kidney pain and back pain. We also cover when to see a doctor.

Kidney pain

The kidneys filter out waste and toxins from the bloodstream, which makes them susceptible to infection and damage. Excess calcium, oxalate, and phosphorous can accumulate in the kidneys to form kidney stones, which can be painful if they cause a blockage.

Kidney pain occurs below the rib cage on either side of a person’s spine. It can also feel as though the pain is coming from deep within the body.

People may experience pain on one or both sides of the body depending on whether a condition affects only one kidney or both kidneys.

Kidney pain can radiate to other areas of the body, such as:

• the sides
• abdomen
• groin
• thigh

Type and severity of pain

Small kidney stones often pass through the urinary system without causing much pain. However, larger stones can cause a sharp, intense pain that typically worsens when the stone moves from the kidney to the ureters. The ureters are tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder and form part of the urinary system.

A kidney infection can cause a dull ache or soreness that remains stable.

Accompanying symptoms

Conditions that affect the kidneys can cause other symptoms, such as:

• cloudy or bloody urine
• painful urination
• a persistent need to urinate
• nausea
• vomiting
• constipation or diarrhea
• fever
• dizziness
• fatigue

Signs of severe kidney damage or problems can include:

• bad breath
• metallic taste
• shortness of breath
• swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet
• confusion
• irregular heartbeat
• muscle cramps
• 
  

• Straining a muscle or ligament in the back is a common cause of back pain. People can strain their backs from overstretching, lifting too much weight, or using incorrect lifting techniques.

  Other causes of back pain can include:

  • poor posture
  • standing or sitting for an extended period
  • muscle spasms
  • muscle tension
  • injuries to the back, such as fractures or falls
  • damaged, dislocated, or ruptured discs
  • abnormal curvature of the spine
  • tumors

  Medical conditions that can cause back pain include:

  • inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis and spondylitis
  • osteoporosis
  • shingles
  • cancer of the spine
  • infections
  • cauda equina syndrome, which affects the nerves at the base of the spinal cord
  • abdominal aortic aneurysm
  • endometriosis

  When to see a doctor

  A person can often treat mild back pain at home with rest, heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, people should see a doctor for pain that results from a traumatic injury.

  It is important for people with symptoms of kidney stones or a kidney infection to see a doctor.

  A person should also seek medical attention for any of the following symptoms:

  • persistent or severe pain that does not improve after rest
  • back pain that gets worse over time
  • pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates down the legs or into the arms
  • difficulty walking or standing
  • swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet
  • unexplained weight loss
  • sudden bladder or bowel problems
  • fever
  • irregular heartbeat
  • shortness of breath 
  • 
    
  • Summary

  The kidneys sit below the rib cage on either side of the spine and rest against the muscles of the back, which means that it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between back pain and kidney pain.

  Kidney pain can occur on one or both sides of the back just below the rib cage. Causes of kidney pain include UTIs, kidney stones, and blunt force trauma to the kidneys.

  Back pain can affect the entire back, but most people experience pain in the lower back. People can develop back pain from heavy lifting, poor posture, and sitting or standing for too long. Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and infections, can also cause back pain.

  Recognizing the difference between kidney pain and back pain can lead to earlier diagnosis and a better treatment outcome

  Exercises and tips for better posture

  • Proper posture guides
  • Effective exercises
  • Other tips
  • Summary

  The term posture describes the position of a person’s body when standing, sitting, or lying down.

  Good posture can boost more than a person’s self-confidence. It also offers long term health benefits, such as:

  • reduced back pain
  • decreased risk of injury
  • reduced stress on the muscles and joints
  • improved circulation, digestion, respiration, and flexibility

  As people start improving their posture, they may gain a greater awareness of their body. A person may begin noticing when their muscles feel tense and become more attuned to misalignments in various areas.

  Over time, the body will learn to correct bad posture naturally.

  In this article, we discuss effective exercises and other tips for better posture.

• Standing

  • Stand with your feet flat on the floor, shoulder width apart.
  • Stand tall, as if a string is pulling upward from your head, and let your arms relax by your sides.
  • Pull your belly button gently toward your spine.
  • Keep your chin parallel with the floor.

  Sitting at a desk or table

  • Sit with your back straight and shoulders back.
  • Keep your feet flat on the floor. Do not cross your legs or ankles.
  • Rest your forearms on the table while keeping your shoulders back.
  • Your chin should be parallel to the floor, and your ears should align with your collar bone.

  Lying down

  People can have good posture while lying on their back or side. Make sure to keep the spine aligned and avoid twisting at the waist. Placing a pillow underneath or between the legs can help relieve back pain.

  People should avoid sleeping on their stomachs because this position forces the neck to twist, putting excessive stress on the neck, shoulders, and back.

  Maintaining proper posture requires adequate muscle strength, joint motion, and balance, according to the American Chiropractic Association.

  The following exercises focus on increasing muscle strength and flexibility for better posture.

• Source - Medical News Today

What is causing this pain in my back?

 Back pain is a common reason for absence from work and for seeking medical treatment. It can be uncomfortable and debilitating.

It can result from injury, activity and some medical conditions. Back pain can affect people of any age, for different reasons. As people get older, the chance of developingTrusted Source lower back pain increases, due to factors such as previous occupation and degenerative disk disease.

Lower back pain may be linked to the bony lumbar spine, discs between the vertebrae, ligaments around the spine and discs, spinal cord and nerves, lower back muscles, abdominal and pelvic internal organs, and the skin around the lumbar area.

Pain in the upper back may be due to disorders of the aorta, tumors in the chest, and spine inflammation.

Causes

The human back is composed of a complex structure of muscles, ligaments, tendons, disks, and bones, which work together to support the body and enable us to move around.

The segments of the spine are cushioned with cartilage-like pads called disks.

Problems with any of these components can lead to back pain. In some cases of back pain, its cause remains unclear.

Damage can result from strain, medical conditions, and poor posture, among others.

Strain

Back pain commonly stems from strain, tension, or injury. Frequent causesTrusted Source of back pain are:

• strained muscles or ligaments
• a muscle spasm
• muscle tension
• damaged disks
• injuries, fractures, or falls

Activities that can lead to strains or spasms include:

• lifting something improperly
• lifting something that is too heavy
• making an abrupt and awkward movement

Structural problems

A number of structural problems may also result in back pain.

• Ruptured disks: Each vertebra in the spine is cushioned by disks. If the disk ruptures there will be more pressure on a nerve, resulting in back pain.
• Bulging disks: In much the same way as ruptured disks, a bulging disk can result in more pressure on a nerve.
• Sciatica: A sharp and shooting pain travels through the buttock and down the back of the leg, caused by a bulging or herniated disk pressing on a nerve.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis can cause problems with the joints in the hips, lower back, and other places. In some cases, the space around the spinal cord narrows. This is known as spinal stenosis.
• Abnormal curvature of the spine: If the spine curves in an unusual way, back pain can result. An example is scoliosis, in which the spine curves to the side.
• Osteoporosis: Bones, including the vertebrae of the spine, become brittle and porous, making compression fractures more likely.
• Kidney problems: Kidney stones or kidney infection can cause back pain

• Adopting a very hunched sitting position when using computers can result in increased back and shoulder problems over time.

  Back pain can also result from some everyday activities or poor posture.

  Examples include:

  • twisting
  • coughing or sneezing
  • muscle tension
  • over-stretching
  • bending awkwardly or for long periods
  • pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying something
  • standing or sitting for long periods
  • straining the neck forward, such as when driving or using a computer
  • long driving sessions without a break, even when not hunched
  • sleeping on a mattress that does not support the body and keep the spine straight

Other causes

• Some medical conditions can lead to back pain.

  • Cauda equina syndrome: The cauda equine is a bundle of spinal nerve roots that arise from the lower end of the spinal cord. Symptoms include a dull pain in the lower back and upper buttocks, as well as numbness in the buttocks, genitalia, and thighs. There are sometimes bowel and bladder function disturbances.
  • Cancer of the spine: A tumor on the spine may press against a nerve, resulting in back pain.
  • Infection of the spine: A fever and a tender, warm area on the back could be due to an infection of the spine.
  • Other infections: Pelvic inflammatory disease, bladder, or kidney infections may also lead to back pain.
  • Sleep disorders: Individuals with sleep disorders are more likely to experience back pain, compared with others.
  • Shingles: An infection that can affect the nerves may lead to back pain. This depends on which nerves are affected.

Risk factors

• The following factors are linked to a higher riskTrusted Source of developing low back pain:

  • occupational activities
  • pregnancy
  • a sedentary lifestyle
  • poor physical fitness
  • older age
  • obesity and excess weight
  • smoking
  • strenuous physical exercise or work, especially if done incorrectly
  • genetic factors
  • medical conditions, such as arthritis and cancer

  Lower back pain also tends to be more common in womenTrusted Source than in men, possibly due to hormonal factors. Stress, anxiety, and mood disorders have also been linked to back pain.

Symptoms

• The main symptom of back pain is an ache or pain anywhere in the back, and sometimes all the way down to the buttocks and legs.

  Some back issues can cause pain in other parts of the body, depending on the nerves affected.

  The pain often goes away without treatment, but if it occurs with any of the following people should see their doctor:

  • weight loss
  • fever
  • inflammation or swelling on the back
  • persistent back pain, where lying down or resting does not help
  • pain down the legs
  • pain that reaches below the knees
  • a recent injury, blow or trauma to the back
  • urinary incontinence
  • difficulty urinating
  • fecal incontinence, or loss of control over bowel movements
  • numbness around the genitals
  • numbness around the anus
  • numbness around the buttocks

When to see a doctor

• You should seek medical helpTrusted Source if you experience any numbness or tingling, or if you have back pain:

  • that does not improve with rest
  • after an injury or fall
  • with numbness in the legs
  • with weakness
  • with fever
  • with unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis

• A doctor will usually be able to diagnose back pain after asking about symptoms and carrying out a physical examination.

  An imaging scan and other tests may be required if:

  • back pain appears to result from an injury
  • there may be underlying cause that needs treatment
  • the pain persists over a long period

  An X-ray, MRI, or CT scan can give information about the state of the soft tissues in the back.

  • X-rays can show the alignment of the bones and detect signs of arthritis or broken bones, but they may not reveal damage in the muscles, spinal cord, nerves, or disks.
  • MRI or CT scans can reveal herniated disks or problems with tissue, tendons, nerves, ligaments, blood vessels, muscles, and bones.
  • Bone scans can detect bone tumors or compression fractures caused by osteoporosis. A radioactive substance or tracer is injected into a vein. The tracer collects in the bones and helps the doctor detect bone problems with the aid of a special camera.
  • Electromyography or EMG measures the electrical impulses produced by nerves in response to muscles. This can confirm nerve compression, which may occur with a herniated disk or spinal stenosis.

  The doctor may also order a blood test if infection is suspected.

Other types of diagnosis

• • A chiropractor will diagnose through touch, or palpation, and a visual examination. Chiropractic is known as a direct approach, with a strong focus on adjusting the spinal joints. A chiropractor may also want to see the results of imaging scans and any blood and urine tests.
  • An osteopath also diagnoses through palpation and visual inspection. Osteopathy involves slow and rhythmic stretching, known as mobilization, pressure or indirect techniques, and manipulation of joints and muscles.
  • A physical therapist focuses on diagnosing problems in the joints and soft tissues of the body.

Chronic or acute pain?

• Back pain is categorized into two typesTrusted Source:

  • Acute pain starts suddenly and lasts for up to 6 weeks.
  • Chronic or long-term pain develops over a longer period, lasts for over 3 months, and causes ongoing problems.

  If a person has both occasional bouts of more intense pain and fairly continuous mild back pain, it can be hard for a doctor to determine whether they have acute or chronic back pain.

Treatment

• Back pain usually resolves with rest and home remedies, but sometimes medical treatment is necessary.

Home treatments

• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication, usually nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, can relieve discomfort. Applying a hot compress or an ice pack to the painful area may also reduce pain.

  Resting from strenuous activity can help, but moving around will ease stiffness, reduce pain, and prevent muscles from weakening.

Medical treatment

• If home treatments do not relieve back pain, a doctor may recommend the following medication, physical therapy, or both.

  Medication: Back pain that does not respond well to OTC painkillers may require a prescription NSAID. Codeine or hydrocodone, which are narcotics, may be prescribed for short periods. These require close monitoring by the doctor. In some cases, muscle relaxants may be used.

  Antidepressants, such as amitriptylineTrusted Source, may be prescribed, but research is ongoing at to their effectiveness, and the evidence is conflicting.

  Physical therapy: Applying heat, ice, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation — as well as some muscle-release techniques to the back muscles and soft tissues — may help alleviate pain.

  As the pain improves, the physical therapist may introduce some flexibility and strength exercises for the back and abdominal muscles. Techniques for improving posture may also help.

  The patient will be encouraged to practice the techniques regularly, even after the pain has gone, to prevent back pain recurrence.

  Cortisone injections: If other options are not effective, these may be injected into the epidural space, around the spinal cord. Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory drug. It helps reduce inflammation around the nerve roots. Injections may also be used to numb areas thought to be causing the pain.

  Botox: Botox (botulism toxin), according to some early studies, are thought to reduce painTrusted Source by paralyzing sprained muscles in spasm. These injections are effective for about 3 to 4 months.

  Traction: Pulleys and weights are used to stretch the back. This may result in a herniated disk moving back into position. It can also relieve pain, but only while traction is applied.

  Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help manage chronic back pain by encouraging new ways of thinking. It may include relaxation techniques and ways of maintaining a positive attitude. Studies have found that patients with CBT tend to become more active and do exercise, resulting in a lower risk of back pain recurrence.

Complementary therapies

• Complementary therapies may be used alongside conventional therapies or on their own.

  Chiropractic, osteopathy, shiatsu, and acupuncture may help relieve back pain, as well as encouraging the patient to feel relaxed.

  • An osteopath specializes in treating the skeleton and muscles.
  • A chiropractor treats joint, muscle and bone problems. The main focus is the spine.
  • Shiatsu, also known as finger pressure therapy, is a type of massage where pressure is applied along energy lines in the body. The shiatsu therapist applies pressure with the fingers, thumbs and elbows.
  • Acupuncture originates from China. It consists of inserting fine needles and specific points in the body. Acupuncture can help the body release its natural painkillers — endorphins — as well as stimulating nerve and muscle tissue.
  • Yoga involves specific poses, movements, and breathing exercises. Some may help strengthen the back muscles and improve posture. Care must be taken that exercises do not make back pain worse.

  Studies on complementary therapies have given mixed results. Some people have experienced significant benefit, while others have not. It is important, when considering alternative therapies, to use a well qualified and registered therapist.

  Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a popular therapy for patients with chronic back pain. The TENS machine delivers small electric pulses into the body through electrodes that are placed on the skin.

  Experts believe TENS encourages the body to produce endorphins and may block pain signals returning to the brain. Studies on TENS have provided mixed results. Some revealed no benefits, while others indicated that it could be helpful for some people.

  A TENS machine should be used under the direction of a doctor or health professional.

  It should not be used by someone who is:

  • is pregnant
  • has a history of epilepsy
  • has a pacemaker
  • has a history of heart disease

  TENS is considered “safe, noninvasive, inexpensive, and patient friendly,” and it appears to reduce pain, but more evidence is neededTrusted Source to confirm its effectiveness in improving activity levels.

Surgery

• Surgery for back pain is very rare. If a patient has a herniated disk surgery may be an option, especially if there is persistent pain and nerve compression which can lead to muscle weakness.

  Examples of surgical procedures include:

  • Fusion: Two vertebrae are joined together, with a bone graft inserted between them. The vertebrae are splinted together with metal plates, screws or cages. There is a significantly greater risk for arthritis to subsequently develop in the adjoining vertebrae.
  • Artificial disk: An artificial disk is inserted; it replaces the cushion between two vertebrae.
  • Diskectomy: A portion of a disk may be removed if it is irritating or pressing against a nerve.
  • Partially removing a vertebra: A small section of a vertebra may be removed if it is pinching the spinal cord or nerves.

  Injecting cells to regenerate spine discs: Scientists from Duke University, North Carolina, developed new biomaterials that can deliver a booster shot of reparative cells to the nucleus pulposus, effectively eliminating pain caused by degenerative disc disease.

Prevention

• Steps to lower the riskTrusted Source of developing back pain consist mainly of addressing some of the risk factors.

  Exercise: Regular exercise helps build strength and control body weight. Guided, low-impact aerobic activities can boost heart health without straining or jerking the back. Before starting any exercise program, talk to a health care professional.

  There are two main types of exercise that people can do to reduce the risk of back pain:

  • Core-strengthening exercises work the abdominal and back muscles, helping to strengthen muscles that protect the back.
  • Flexibility training aims at improving core flexibility, including the spine, hips, and upper legs.

  Diet: Make sure your diet includes enough calcium and vitamin D, as these are needed for bone health. A healthful diet also helps control body weight.

  Smoking: A significantly higher percentage of smokers have back pain incidences compared to non-smokers of the same age, height, and weight.

  Body weight: The weight people carry and where they carry it affects the risk of developing back pain. The difference in back pain risk between obese and normal-weight individuals is considerable. People who carry their weight in the abdominal area versus the buttocks and hip area are also at greater risk.

  Posture when standing: Make sure you have a neutral pelvic position. Stand upright, head facing forward, back straight, and balance your weight evenly on both feet. Keep your legs straight and your head in line with your spine.

Posture when sitting: A good seat for working should have good back support, arm rests and a swivel base. When sitting, try to keep your knees and hips level and keep your feet flat on the floor, or use a footstool. You should ideally be able to sit upright with support in the small of your back. If you are using a keyboard, make sure your elbows are at right-angles and that your forearms are horizontal.

Lifting: When lifting things, use your legs to do the lifting, rather than your back.

Keep your back as straight as you can, keeping your feet apart with one leg slightly forward so you can maintain balance. Bend only at the knees, hold the weight close to your body, and straighten the legs while changing the position of your back as little as possible.

Bending your back initially is unavoidable, but when you bend your back try not to stoop, and be sure to tighten your stomach muscles so that your pelvis is pulled in. Most important, do not straighten your legs before lifting, or you will be using your back for most of the work.

Do not lift and twist at the same time: If something is particularly heavy, see if you can lift it with someone else. While you are lifting keep looking straight ahead, not up or down, so that the back of your neck is like a continuous straight line from your spine.

Moving things: It is better for your back to push things across the floor, using your leg strength, rather than pulling them.

Shoes: Flat shoes place less of a strain on the back.

Driving: It is important to have proper support for your back. Make sure the wing mirrors are properly positioned so you do not need to twist. The pedals should be squarely in front of your feet. If you are on a long journey, have plenty of breaks. Get out of the car and walk around.

Bed: You should have a mattress that keeps your spine straight, while at the same time supporting the weight of your shoulders and buttocks. Use a pillow, but not one that forces your neck into a steep angle.

Source - Medical News Today