Finding Help For My Back Problems

Many cases of low back pain are caused by muscle strains, overuse, spasms, standing on your feet all day, and poor posture. While these are some of the most common causes of low back pain, there are other, less common causes that involve the renal and urinary tracts. Here are some reasons why your lower back may hurt as a result of renal or urinary tract problems, and what you can do about them:

Cystitis

Also known as a bladder infection, cystitis can cause a burning sensation during urination, urinary urgency, chills and fever, and sometimes even blood in the urine. In addition to these symptoms, cystitis can also cause pelvic pain and low back pain. 

If you develop any of the above symptoms, make an appointment with your physician. In the meantime, drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins from your urinary tract, use a heating pad to help soothe pelvic and back pain, and take an over-the-counter analgesic if you develop a fever. 

While bladder infections can resolve without treatment, you may need to take antibiotics if you do not feel better after a week or so. Once your infection has cleared, your symptoms will resolve -- including your lower back pain. 

Kidney Infection

Renal problems such as chronic kidney infections can cause pain in the part of your back known as the flank. This type of pain can cause discomfort and pressure in the area of your middle and lower back, and your side. 

The symptoms of a kidney infection can mimic those of cystitis, and may include pain, fever, urinary frequency and urgency, burning sensations upon urination, and blood in the urine. Antibiotics will help resolve a bacterial infection of the renal system; however, you will need to drink plenty water, rest, avoid smoking, and eat a healthy diet while you are recuperating.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen will help ease your back pain; however, talk to your doctor before taking them. Certain over-the-counter pain medications may further strain your renal system, which may slow your healing. In addition to a urinalysis, your doctor may recommend that you undergo a kidney ultrasound if your symptoms fail to resolve after you have completed your antibiotic therapy. 

If you develop lower back pain as a result of a bladder or kidney infection, consider the above interventions, and then make an appointment with your chiropractor. He or she may recommend a therapeutic massage, which will help promote optimal circulation to diminish your discomfort.