Low back pain is a common complaint; when you have lower back pain on the left side, it may suggest something more specific. The key is knowing what your body’s trying to tell you and when it’s time to pay attention.
Causes of Lower Back Pain on the Left Side
1. Muscle strain or soft tissue injury
One of the most common reasons for localized back pain is a strain or sprain involving the muscles, tendons, or ligaments. Overexertion, poor posture, or lifting something the wrong way can all overstretch soft tissues. This can cause pain and stiffness, often focused on one side.
You might notice:
- Muscle tightness or spasms
- Pain when bending or twisting
- Soreness that worsens with movement
- Limited range of motion
These types of injuries usually respond well to rest, ice or heat therapy, and gentle stretching. If the pain persists or worsens, it is time to consult your doctor.
2. Spinal disc problems and nerve irritation
Conditions such as a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease can affect nerves exiting the spine on either side. If nerve compression occurs on the left, you may feel sharp or shooting pain in the left lower back, sometimes radiating down the leg, a sign of sciatica.
Other possible symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling
- Weakness in the leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting or lifting
Conservative care, like physical therapy or painkillers, may be enough for some people to recover. But in more advanced cases, additional interventions or surgery may be necessary.
3. Kidney-related issues
Your kidneys are located toward the back of your abdomen, so problems with the left kidney can often lead to left-sided back pain.
Kidney infections, which can start as a urinary tract infection, often cause flank pain on the affected side. You might also experience symptoms like:
- Painful urination
- Fever
- Nausea
Kidney stones, on the other hand, can trigger sudden and intense pain that starts in the back and moves toward the abdomen or groin. Other symptoms, like blood in the urine or difficulty urinating, may also occur.
4. Gastrointestinal conditions
Problems in your digestive system can also refer pain to your back.
Diverticulitis, an inflammation of small pouches in the colon, is often present on the left side. It can cause lower abdominal pain that radiates to the back, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
Gas or constipation can create temporary discomfort in the left side of the abdomen and back. This is especially common after eating or when your digestive tract is moving slowly.
5. Ovarian cysts in Females
When a cyst forms on the left ovary, it can cause discomfort that spreads to the lower back or thigh. Depending on the size and type of cyst, your doctor may recommend watchful waiting, hormonal therapy, or surgical removal.
6. Endometriosis in Females
This condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. If it affects the left ovary, it can lead to chronic left-sided pain that worsens around menstruation.
7. Varicoceles in Males
An enlarged vein in the scrotum, called a varicocele, can affect the left side and may trigger a dull ache that spreads to the back or groin.
8. Prostate Problems in Males
Prostate problems, such as inflammation or enlargement, can also cause back or pelvic discomfort along with urinary symptoms.
9. Testicular Torsion in Males
In rare but urgent cases, a twisting of the spermatic cord, known as testicular torsion, may result in sudden, severe pain that may radiate to the lower back. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent loss of the testicle.
See A Spine Surgeon For Lower Back Pain on the Left Side
If your back pain is due to muscle or spine problems, a visit to a spine surgeon or physiatrist should be your next stop. They can help you get a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to you.
Don’t continue to live with lower back pain on the left side – schedule an appointment today!
