5 reasons why you may have back pain on the right side

The back structure is incredibly flexible and dynamic. This makes this area susceptible to severe and repetitive discomfort. However, if the discomfort is isolated on one side, you might start to wonder what may be causing it. Come, let us find out what are the causes of right side back pain and how to get rid of it.

Fortunately, your lower right side of your back pain is generally caused by a sedentary lifestyle and sudden, intense workout routines that can lead to injuries and aches. However, there are times when specific medical disorders, such as kidney stones, can cause this sharp, severe, and persistent pain, especially on the right side of your back.

 

Health Shots got in touch with Dr Aniket Mule, consultant internal medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, Mumbai, to find the causes behind right side back pain.

Here are 5 causes of right side back pain:

1. Sprains and strains

Sprains and strains can cause muscle pain that can take away your comfort even while trying to sleep. According to Dr Mule, “This can occur randomly due to an injury or sudden movements such as lifting heavy objects or lifting by using the wrong technique, twisting or jerking the body awkwardly, not warming up properly before exercise or falling can cause right side lower back pain.” A majority of the time, you can manage this discomfort at home with rest, ice, heat, and over-the-counter medications.

2. Spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis means narrowing or compression of the spinal canal (the area inside the spine that contains the spinal cord). This causes strain on the spinal cord, causing numbness and pain in the lower right side of the back. It is challenging to accurately diagnose this painful ailment because its symptoms are so similar to other spinal conditions. Medication, physical therapy, and surgery are frequently used to treat spinal stenosis.

3. Appendicitis

Appendicitis typically causes intense pain in the right side of the back or stomach. Other symptoms of this condition may include feeling bloated, having gas, abdominal swelling, appetite loss, fever, vomiting, constipation, nausea, or diarrhoea. It is an inflammation of the appendix seen due to a blockage or an infection. It might burst or rupture if left untreated. Therefore, if you experience these symptoms, consult a physician right away. Treatment options for this condition include surgery to remove the inflamed appendix.

4. Kidney stones or urinary tract infections (UTI)

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, or urolithiasis, are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that are present in the kidneys. They can form in one or both of the kidneys. It is a commonly occurring condition in a majority of people. They cause pain in the right side of the back. If large kidney stones are obstructing the urinary tract, they must be removed right away.

In addition to kidney stones, UTIs are another cause of back pain. Other symptoms, such as a burning sensation when you urinate, are frequently present in addition to this.

5. Ulcerative colitis

You will be surprised to know that this condition leads to the inflammation of the lining of the large intestine, or colon. It can lead to right side lower back pain along with abdominal pain. Once you notice the pain, you need to consult the doctor on an immediate basis.