Back pain and flank pain
Back pain and flank pain
It is sometimes hard to tell the difference between back pain that is caused by a bone or muscle problem and back pain (flank pain) that is caused by a kidney or bladder infection or a kidney stone.
Back pain that is caused by a bone or muscle problem:
- Occurs in the lower back, below the waist, or in the upper back, over the spine or between the shoulder blades.
- Gets worse when a person moves.
- Gets better when a person rests.
Flank pain that is caused by a kidney infection or a kidney stone:
- Occurs on one side of the back, just below the rib cage (above the waist).
- May spread to the bladder area or genitals.
- Gets worse as the bladder fills.
- Does not get worse when a person moves.
Flank pain with fever and urinary symptoms may mean a kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is present.
Credits
| Author | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Last Updated | August 28, 2007 |
| Last updated: | August 28, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Reviewed By: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.




