Left-Side Lower Back Pain: Causes & How to Get Relief

Key takeaways:

• Left-side lower back pain can result from various causes, including musculoskeletal strains, spine problems, and kidney issues.
• Understanding your symptoms can help identify the underlying cause and guide your treatment options.
• Effective home remedies and preventive strategies can provide relief and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Left-side lower back pain is a common problem that can interfere with your daily activities and overall quality of life. The pain can range from mild discomfort to more severe pain that makes movement challenging. Left-side lower back pain can result from relatively simple causes, like a pulled muscle, or can be a sign of a more complex condition, such as a kidney problem or nerve compression.

Let’s look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for left-side lower back pain. Whether you’re experiencing a mild ache or more severe pain, understanding the potential reasons and knowing when to get medical care is essential for managing your pain effectively.

Left-side lower back pain defined

Left-side lower back pain refers to discomfort or pain localized in your lumbar (low back) area on the left side of your body. This lumbar area of your back supports much of your body’s weight and plays a significant role in movement and stability.

Left-side lower back pain can vary in intensity and duration:

• Acute pain: Usually lasts less than six weeks and is often the result of a sudden strain, an injury, or overuse.
• Chronic pain: Continues for three months or more and may signal an underlying medical condition.

Left-side lower back pain can be caused by musculoskeletal issues, nerve-related conditions, or spinal issues such as arthritis or disc disease. This makes proper diagnosis essential.

Health risks associated with left-side lower back pain

Ignoring your left-side lower back pain can lead to long-term consequences, including:

• Limited mobility: Persistent pain can make doing such simple activities as bending, walking, and lifting difficult. This has the potential to reduce your independence.
• Strain on other areas: When your back hurts on one side, you are likely to unconsciously compensate for the pain by putting more weight on the other side. This can stress your hips, knees, or upper back, leading to even further discomfort.
• Mental health impact: Chronic pain is linked to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and disrupted sleep.
• Progression of underlying conditions: Left untreated, certain causes of your back pain, such as a kidney infection or compressed nerve, can get worse and potentially lead to serious complications.

Symptoms associated with left-side lower back pain

Understanding your specific symptoms can help identify their cause. Here are the most common symptoms and what they might mean:

Sharp or stabbing pain

A sharp or stabbing sensation may mean nerve involvement, such as with a herniated disc or sciatica. Pain may occur suddenly and usually worsens with movement, coughing, or sneezing. It can also radiate to other areas of your body, such as the hip, thigh, or leg, as the pain follows the pathway of the affected nerve.

Aching or throbbing pain

A dull, persistent ache is commonly associated with a muscle strain or ligament sprains. These injuries are often due to overuse, improper lifting, or poor posture. In some cases, the discomfort may also be caused by a degenerative condition like osteoarthritis, where wear and tear on your spinal joints leads to inflammation and stiffness.

Radiating pain

Pain running from your lower back to your buttocks, thighs, or even down to your feet is a sign of nerve compression. This can occur in sciatica when your sciatic nerve is pinched by a herniated disc, bone spur, or narrowing of your spinal canal (spinal stenosis). Movement, such as bending or twisting, often makes the pain worse.

Numbness or tingling

Numbness or tingling is often described as a "pins and needles" sensation. This sensation may mean nerve irritation or compression and may be localized to your lower back or extend into your hip, leg, or foot. Persistent or progressive numbness may mean serious nerve damage, such as that caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or nerve trauma.

Causes of left-side lower back pain

Left-side lower back pain can result from a variety of underlying conditions, ranging from muscle strain to more complex medical issues. Understanding these causes is essential for determining the most appropriate treatment.

Muscle strain or ligament sprain

The most common causes of lower back pain are overuse, improper lifting techniques, or sudden movements. All of these can overstretch or tear muscles and ligaments in your lower back. Symptoms often include localized pain, tenderness, and stiffness that worsen with movement but improve with rest.

Muscle strain is prevalent after activities such as lifting heavy objects, engaging in strenuous exercise, or experiencing an awkward twist or fall. In some cases, muscle spasms may develop as your body attempts to protect the injured area.

Herniated disc

A herniated, or slipped, disc happens when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through its tougher outer layer. If the bulging or ruptured disc presses on nearby nerves, it can cause pain that radiates to the left side of your lower back.

This pain may also extend into your hip, buttocks, or leg. This nerve compression can also cause numbness, tingling, or even muscle weakness.

Kidney stones or infections

Kidney-related issues such as stones or infections can cause severe, sharp pain localized to one side of your lower back. Pain from kidney stones may also radiate to your abdomen or groin, and you may also have symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or difficulty passing urine. Kidney infections usually present with fever, chills, and changes in your urine, such as cloudy or foul-smelling urine.

Arthritis

Degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis can affect your lower spine, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Over time, the cartilage that cushions your joints wears away, resulting in inflammation and discomfort. Spinal arthritis can also cause bone spurs to form, which can narrow the spaces where nerves pass through. This can make pain worse and lead to other symptoms, such as tingling or weakness in your legs. Arthritis-related back pain usually worsens with activity and improves with rest and gentle movement.

Other causes of left-side lower back pain based on another symptom or situation

Pain in the left-side lower back can vary in cause depending on accompanying symptoms or situations.

Sharp or stabbing pain left-side lower back

Sharp pain can mean a herniated disc, nerve compression, or kidney stones. These conditions require a medical evaluation to determine the best course of treatment.

Burning pain in the left-side lower back

Burning sensations in the left-side lower back are often associated with nerve-related issues, such as sciatica or muscle inflammation. Anti-inflammatory medications and targeted exercises can help you manage these symptoms.

Left-side lower back pain during pregnancy

Hormonal changes, weight gain, and shifting posture during pregnancy can strain your lower back. Gentle stretching, supportive pillows, and physical therapy can often provide relief.

Left-side lower back pain in females

In women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB), conditions like endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or fibroids can cause lower back pain. These conditions may also cause pelvic pain, heavy periods, or irregular bleeding.

Left-side lower back pain in males

Prostate issues or testicular problems can lead to referred pain in the lower back. Men and individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB) experiencing persistent or worsening pain should consult their healthcare provider for evaluation.

How to get short-term relief from left-side lower back pain

Short-term relief from left-side lower back pain often involves simple strategies that address pain and inflammation effectively.

Rest and gentle stretches

Resting for a short period allows your back muscles to recover, while light stretching prevents stiffness and promotes flexibility.

Heat or cold therapy

Applying a heating pad can relax tight muscles, while ice packs help to reduce inflammation and can numb sharp pain. Alternate between heat and cold for optimal results. Be careful not to burn your skin with a hot heating pad left on the area too long. Also, you shouldn’t apply a cold pack directly to bare skin. Instead, wrap it in a towel or other covering before applying.

Over-the-counter pain relief

Medications like ibuprofen (brand names Advil or Motrin) or acetaminophen (brand name Tylenol) can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation. Always take these according to the package directions. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen should always be taken with food.

Massage therapy

Gentle massage can improve your circulation and help to relieve tension in the affected areas. In many cases, a massage can provide short-term pain relief.

How to prevent left-side lower back pain

Preventing left-side lower back pain involves adopting habits and practices that promote spinal health and minimize strain.

Maintain proper posture

Sitting and standing with a neutral spine reduces strain on the lower back. A neutral spine refers to the natural alignment of your spine when its three curves: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), and lumbar (lower back), are properly balanced. This position provides the most comfort and stability for your spine and helps to minimize strain and reduce the risk of injury. Using ergonomically designed chairs and workstations can support good posture.

Strengthen your core

Exercises that target your core muscles, such as planks or yoga, can improve your spinal stability and reduce the risk of back pain.

Avoid heavy lifting

Proper lifting techniques that involve bending at your knees and keeping the object close to your body can prevent muscle strain and injuries.

Stay active

Regular physical activity helps you to maintain a healthy weight. Exercise also can improve your flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support your back.

When you should see a doctor about left-side lower back pain

Knowing when to seek medical attention for left-side lower back pain can help address potential underlying issues promptly and effectively.

You should see a doctor if:

• Your pain continues for more than two weeks.
• You have other symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or changes in urination.
• Your pain is preventing you from engaging in your usual daily activities, or it worsens over time.

You should go to the emergency room if:

• The pain is severe and sudden, especially if you have had a fall or injury.
• You have a fever, as this could mean a serious kidney infection (pyelonephritis).
• You experience loss of control of your bladder or bowels. This may mean a medical emergency like cauda equina syndrome.
• Your back pain is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

Questions to ask your doctor about left-side lower back pain

1. What could be causing my left-side lower back pain?
2. Do I need imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to diagnose my condition?
3. What treatment options are best for my symptoms?
4. Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to prevent future episodes?

How a doctor may help treat left-side lower back pain

Doctors can provide a range of treatments for left-side lower back pain, depending on the cause and severity of your symptoms.

Physical therapy

A customized program of exercises supervised by a physical therapist can strengthen your muscles, improve posture, and help relieve your pain.

Prescription medications

Your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or stronger pain relievers for severe symptoms.

Injections

In some cases, corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and provide long-term relief for nerve or joint-related pain.

Surgery

In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address issues such as herniated discs or severe arthritis.

Frequently asked questions: left-side lower back pain

Here are answers to common questions about left-side lower back pain to help you better understand your symptoms and treatment options.

What if you feel sudden left-side lower back pain?

Rest, apply ice or heat, and avoid any activities that worsen the pain. If your symptoms continue or worsen, you should get the advice of your physician.

How long can left-side lower back pain last?

Acute pain usually resolves within a few weeks, while longer-lasting chronic pain may require long-term management and treatment.

What specialists can treat left-side lower back pain?

Your family physician can evaluate and treat you initially for your left-side lower back pain. If necessary, they may refer you to an orthopedic doctor or even a neurologist or neurosurgeon if there is nerve involvement. Your physician may enlist physical therapists and chiropractors to help with your treatment plan.

Managing left-side lower back pain

Left-side lower back pain is a common condition with various causes, ranging from muscle strain to more serious medical conditions. Understanding the potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage your pain effectively and prevent future episodes. If your pain persists or worsens, consulting your healthcare provider will help you get a diagnosis and treatment plan and prevent complications.

General Medicine follows a strict editorial process, including using real experts to write our articles, vetted primary sources, fact-checking, a secondary medical review, and updates as necessary. This article was medically reviewed and fact checked by Dr. Lane Thaut, DO.

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