Introduction
Flank pain on the left describes pain in the left flank region. The flank region is located at the transition from the abdomen to the back and occupies an area that is both slightly above and slightly below the costal arch. The lower ribs are thus located in the left flank region, below which lie the left kidney and adrenal gland, the spleen and some parts of the intestine. Flank pain can occur suddenly or develop over a period of time. They can feel dull/pushing or stabbing.
Causes of left flank pain
Flank pain on the left side can originate either from the skin, the locomotor system (spine, ribs, nerves) or from internal organs on the left side of the upper abdomen. 1) Skin: inflammation of the skin in the area of the left flank naturally causes pain. A classical disease is shingles (herpes zoster), which manifests itself with a blister-like rash.
2) Spine: Various diseases of the spine can cause pain in the left flank region. With increasing age, wear and tear of the joints between the vertebral bodies can occur (arthrosis). Additional bone substance can be added, which can narrow the exit holes for the nerve roots and irritate the corresponding nerves.
Congenital malpositions of the spinal column, e.g. scoliosis, can also cause flank pain on the left side 3) Poor posture and tension: If the body is incorrectly positioned, the muscles tense up and become overstressed. This leads to painful tension. 4) Internal organs: Flank pain on the left side can also be caused by the abdominal organs on this side.
These include the spleen, left kidney, stomach, pancreas and part of the colon. Flatulence affects the small and large intestine and occurs, for example, after eating flatulent foods (beans, etc.) or as part of an “upset” or infection of the digestive tract.
This leads to a pronounced formation of digestive gases, which cannot leave the intestine as quickly as they are produced. The result: the abdomen bloats and the stomach feels full. Pain in the stomach and colon can also radiate to the left flank region.
However, flank pain on the left side is not a typical symptom of flatulence. The left flank is located in close proximity to the spine. The so-called autochthonous back muscles, which are responsible for stabilizing the trunk, run alongside the spinal column.
If the spinal column or pelvis is incorrectly positioned or if the upper body is incorrectly positioned (as is customary), some muscles are subjected to more strain than usual. They cramp and harden, which we call “tension”. If these muscles are located in the area of the left flank, flank pain on the left side is the result.