Localization of pain

The localization of the pain gives an important indication of the cause. For this reason, the pain is discussed below according to its location. Various causes can be present for right-sided pain above the hip.

If the pain is felt more at the back of the back above the hip, it is usually a muscular or neurological problem. Here, one-sided tension of the musculature or inflammation of the nerves can be responsible. If the pain is felt rather laterally at the back, the right kidney or the right ureter may be affected.

A variety of different diseases can be present here: for example, kidney stones, inflammation of the kidneys, inflammation of the renal pelvis, kidney cysts, renal artery or venous stenosis and many other diseases can trigger the pain above the hip. In some cases, the pain can be very severe. If the kidney is inflamed, tapping the flanks can cause severe pain.

Ureteral stones, ureteral inflammation and ureteral congestion on the right side can also cause pain in this area. If the pain is more noticeable on the right front above the hip, appendicitis may also be the cause. The symptoms of appendicitis can be different.

This can be explained by the fact that the appendix, which is actually affected by the inflammation in appendicitis, can take up a very variable position in the abdominal cavity. If fever should occur in addition to the pain, a doctor should be consulted. Rather rarely, the pain can also be caused by the right colon.

This right part of the intestine is called the ascending colon and describes the ascending part of the colon. For example, an infection of the right part of the intestine can then be responsible for the pain. Pain on the left side, which tends to originate from the back, can also be triggered by muscles and nerves located there.

However, internal organs on the left side can also cause pain above the hip or radiate it there. The pain emanating from organs is usually crampy and diffuse. This means that it is often not possible to interpret exactly where the pain comes from.

If the pain is felt more in the flanks – i.e. laterally backwards – the left kidney or the left ureter can be affected. Again, various clinical pictures such as inflammations, stones or cysts may be the cause. Pain on the left side can also be caused by a so-called diverticulitis – also known as “left appendicitis” – which is located more in the front above the hip.

This is an inflammation of acquired, small protuberances of the intestinal wall (diverticulosis). The pain usually increases over time in diverticulitis. In addition, there is usually fever, stool changes such as diarrhea or constipation, flatulence, nausea and vomiting.

Bilateral pain above the hip is not usually organ-related but usually has a muscular or bony background. For example, if the vertebrae of the lumbar spine are blocked, pain can occur on both sides of the lower back. This often occurs when heavy loads are lifted incorrectly, but a vertebra can also block after accidents or falls.The pain can radiate into the groin or legs, movement restrictions in the lower spine are also possible.

Herniated discs can also cause pain on both sides. This pain can also radiate into the buttocks or legs and cause sensory disturbances. It is important to consult a doctor if muscle weakness of the legs or sudden weakness of the bladder – i.e. when the urine can no longer be held – occurs. Muscle tension also often occurs on both sides and can cause pain in the lumbar region. Often people who sit a lot, such as when doing office work, are affected.