Your Sacramento Chiropractor

Back pain can come from a variety of possible causes. Typically, there’s nerve damage in the spine, or an injury to the interconnected network of muscles, tendons and ligaments in the back. However, sometimes your pain is coming from a different source all together.

Your discomfort may actually be the result of a kidney problem. Kidney stones can trigger sharp, relentless pain in the lower back on either side of your spinal column (this area is often called the “flank.”)

So how do you know whether your back pain comes from a spinal or muscular injury versus a renal problem?

Your first clue - and one of your best - is the location of your pain. Kidney pain usually occurs between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the hips. It is more likely to happen toward your sides - not so much near the spinal column, which is typical in cases where nerve damage has taken place.

Pain from a kidney problem often comes on fast and strong. You seem fine - and then a few minutes later you’re dealing with a lot of discomfort.

Kidney stones are among the most common causes of back pain caused by kidney problems. Pain often occurs as these pebble-like masses move out of the kidneys and down the ureters toward the bladder. When a kidney stone becomes lodged in a ureter, obstructing the flow of urine, it can cause extreme pain.

Besides back pain, one common symptom of a kidney stone or kidney infection include darker-than-average urine.

Generally speaking, most people with kidney or bladder disorders feel the need to urinate more often than usual. However, when they try, they often find that not much urine is actually produced.

Kidney stones and kidney infections will also usually cause a burning or stinging sensation during urination too.

Kidney stones don’t always have to be removed through surgery or shock wave treatment. They sometimes pass out of the body on their own dueing urination. This is more likely to take place if you drink a lot of water. When this happens, your back pain comes to an end.

Kidney stones, although they can cause extreme pain and discomfort, are not considered a threat to life.

But a kidney infection, left untreated, can lead to kidney damage and even kidney failure. Therefore, if you even suspect your back pain is coming from a kidney infection, it’s best to call a doctor right away.

Do you still want more information on related subjects? Click on kidney failure. Neal Kennedy is a former radio and TV journalist with a special interest in medical topics. You can read more of his articles about kidney disorders at http://www.kidney-problem.org.