Definition
Flank pain is pain that occurs on the right and/or left side of the middle to lower back. Basically, the pain can be caused by different factors. Often the cause lies in the kidneys and the urinary tract. However, other diseases can also be hidden behind flank pain. If the pain is persistent or severe, a medical examination should be performed.
Causes
The causes of flank pain are manifold. For example, they can be triggered by tension. These are favored by predominantly sedentary activities or staying in one position for a longer time.
Dislocated vertebrae and pinched nerves can also trigger flank pain. In athletes, flank pain can also be caused by sports injuries due to bruising. Even after accidents, flank pain can be a sign of a contusion or injury to internal organs.
Flank pain is particularly typical for diseases of the kidneys and the urinary tract. For example, flank pain occurs in the case of inflammation of the renal pelvis (pyelonephritis). This is often caused by an inflammation of the bladder, which spreads to the upper urinary tract.
Kidney stones that migrate into the ureter can also cause flank pain. These are then typically crampy and occur very suddenly with nausea and sweating. Ultimately, intestinal diseases can also make themselves felt by radiating pain in the flank area.
Flank pain due to tensions
Flank pain caused by tension is usually felt on both sides of the body. Tension is often caused by a lot of sedentary activity and one-sided strain and is most often located in the back muscles. These muscles are under great strain in everyday life and tend to cramp.
The hardening of the muscles can cause unpleasant pain which can radiate into surrounding areas. For example, tension in the back area can cause flank pain. Massages and heat applications can help to ease the tension. In order to prevent further tensions, sufficient physical activity with targeted strengthening of the trunk muscles should be ensured.
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