Lower back pain on the right side can come from various issues. The common causes are muscle strain, sprain, and other injuries. However, it may also be due to an underlying condition that needs medical attention. For instance, one of the symptoms of viral infection is back pain. Thus, getting a diagnosis is essential to find the main cause of the pain. The treatments often include physical therapy, pain medication and muscle relaxants, and alternative methods like TENS.
Persistent back pain can be debilitating. It may feel like a constant dull ache or throbbing sensation that limits movement. If you are experiencing one-sided back pain, it is crucial to address it promptly and effectively. Ignoring the pain may worsen the condition. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of lower back pain and available treatment options. Understanding their causes help find practical solutions.
What Causes Lower Back Pain Right Side?
Lower back pain on the right side can be caused by a variety of factors. One common reason is pulled muscles. Sprains and strains come from trauma to the ligaments and muscles, such as overstretching them. This can occur from lifting heavy objects, sudden movements, repetitive motions, or poor posture. Likewise, prolonged inactivity may lead to aches in the back muscles.
Chronic back pain may also come from a structural or mechanical problem. Older people are more prone to degenerative disc disease due to the wear and tear conditions of the spine. These include ankylosing spondylitis, disc herniation, SI joint dysfunction, and spinal stenosis. Disorders in the spinal disc may result in nerve compression and inflammation.
Furthermore, certain medical conditions can contribute to back pain on the right side. Some underlying causes are kidney stones, bacterial infections, and appendicitis. They conditions can cause inflammation or blockages in the digestive or urinary system, leading to discomfort in the back. Therefore, it is vital to consult a medical professional when the pain starts in the abdomen and extends to the lower back.
Risk Factors
The chances of getting back pain on the right side increase due to the following factors:
- Weak muscles in the lower back. This may lead to muscle spasms and more prone to injuries.
- Poor posture. Misalignment of the spine may lead to backaches, muscle tightness, and joint dysfunction.
- Improper body mechanics. Not using the right techniques when lifting heavy objects.
- Herniated discs can put pressure on the nerves.
- Degenerative conditions include osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, kidney infection, gallbladder inflammation, myofascial pain syndrome, and pelvic inflammatory diseases.
- Appendicitis. Inflammation of the appendix on the lower right side of the abdomen.
Treatment Options For Lower Back Pain Right Side
A health professional may prescribe medications, physical therapy, or surgery for severe cases depending on the diagnosis. Home treatments like heat and cold therapy may relieve lower back pain on the right side from muscle and tissue injuries. Additionally, stretching and strengthening exercises can help soothe sore muscles. It can also help stabilise the muscles and joints and protect the spine from sudden impact.
Physical therapy for back pain includes therapeutic exercises to strengthen the lower back muscles, spinal tissues and joints. It aims to decrease pain symptoms and improve the flexibility of the spine in the long term. Therefore, it helps regain the normal functions of the back for daily activities, including the range of motion.
Moreover, over-the-counter medications can help relieve intense pain. A common type is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help lessen swelling. In other cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers or muscle relaxants for more serious conditions. Prescription drugs like opioids have higher doses to treat chronic pain conditions or severe pain. Thus, following the recommended dosage is important in avoiding health risks or complications.
When To Seek Medical Attention
It is crucial to seek urgent medical care if the lower back pain is persistent, severe, or comes with other discomfort. Additional symptoms to take note of are pain with fever, chills, burning sensations when urinating or infrequent urination. Additionally, you should see a doctor if you experience nausea, vomiting, and sharp abdominal and hip pain.
Furthermore, it is advisable to consult a professional if the pain does not improve with rest or medication. Other important signs include numbness or weakness in the legs and unexplained weight loss. These emergency symptoms may indicate an infection or disease, especially if there is no previously known condition.
TENS Therapy As An Alternative Pain Relief for Lower Back Pain Right Side
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, or TENS therapy, is a popular alternative for pain relief. It involves the use of low-voltage electrical currents to alleviate pain. This therapy works by sending small impulses through the electrodes placed on the skin. The impulses reach the underlying nerves and stimulate them to block the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
A TENS machine also triggers the release of endorphins. These hormones have innate pain-relieving effects, similar to morphine. In addition, it helps boost blood circulation, which helps to reduce inflammation. The increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients for faster healing of damaged nerves and tissues. Hence, it can help manage pain associated with joint inflammation, nerve compressions, and post-surgical pain.
TENS therapy is a non-invasive treatment and has minimal to no side effects. The device is portable and can be used at home or on the go. Furthermore, it provides targeted pain relief for lower right back pain through the flexible placement of the electrodes. Thus, it does not pose risks to other internal organs.
Safety Guidelines For Using TENS Device
It is vital to note that TENS therapy may not be for everyone. For instance, pregnant women and people with heart disease, epilepsy, and implanted devices must seek medical advice before using TENS. When using the device, apply the electrodes near the pain site. Avoid sensitive areas like the head, eyes, throat, and spinal column.
Other areas to avoid are skin surfaces with open wounds, cuts, or rashes. Also, refrain from using the device for more than one hour at one time. Do not set the intensity too high that it may cause further discomfort or skin irritation.
Conclusion
Back pain is one of the most common disabling conditions affecting many adults. Muscle strain and sprain are usually the leading causes. However, lower back pain on the right side may indicate a more severe condition. It may be a symptom of an infection or organ dysfunction. Depending on the cause of the pain, there are various ways to manage it. Treatments like physical therapy and medications can help relieve inflammation and reduce pain.
A cost-efficient alternative for pain relief is TENS therapy. It uses low-voltage electrical currents through a portable device to stimulate the nerves to disrupt pain signals. Therefore, it helps alleviate pain symptoms without the adverse side effects of medications. However, if the pain is severe and persistent with other symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Seeking urgent care is vital and enables many individuals to get back to their normal routines.
