Most adults face back pain at least once in their life. Right side back pain is very common and is usually triggered when the muscles are strained. In addition to muscle strain, back pain on the right side can also be caused by serious medical emergencies. This is why it is so important to understand the various causes of back pain and recognize whether or not your pain could be caused by a serious problem.
Causes of Back Pain on the Right Side
This pain might occur in a specific situation (acute) or on a consistent basis (chronic). Acute pain is usually sharp and intense and has a sudden onset. Chronic pain persists for a long time. It might not hurt as bad as acute back pain, but over time, it affects a person’s quality of life. The following is a list of things that cause right side back pain:
1. Urinary Tract Infection
An infection in the urinary tract is a common cause for back pain in the right side of the body. These infections affect millions of people annually and can flare up in the bladder, ureters, kidneys, and urethra. Symptoms of urinary tract infections, aside from back pain, include burning during urination, increased in urge to urinate, pressure above the public bone, decreased urine output, and a feeling of mild illness or fatigue. For some, urinary tract infections cause pink or reddish cloudy urine.
2. Scapular Fracture
If a person suffers a scapular fracture on the right side of his body he will experience pain. Scapular fractures occur in the shoulder blade and very rarely occur. Usually the cause is a vehicle crash or a fall. Significant force is required to damage the area and it can often occur in conjunction with breaks to the ribs or injuries to the lungs, spinal cord, or head. In addition to back pain, a fractured scapular can cause a reduction in side arm movement and swelling of the affected shoulder.
3. Lumbar Muscle Strain
If the lumbar muscle is strained it results in extreme right side back pain. Lumbar strain affects the lower back. It can occur if a person makes a sudden movement and triggers a spasm in the muscle. It can also be caused by repetitive lifting of heavy items. Pain can be sudden and intense or it might increase gradually. The symptoms of lumbar muscle strain, in addition to this pain, include welling or bruising and reduced range of motion, especially when bending forward or to the side.
4. Slipped Disc
The spinal cord is protected by a series of small bones and between each is a disc of cartilage tissue. The purpose of this tissue is to add flexibility and rage of motion, and to create shock absorption. When the tissue protrudes through a weak spot it is called a slipped or herniated disc. It creates pressure on the spinal nerves which develops into inflammation and causes pain.
5. Improper Posture
Unfortunately, many people struggle with posture. Sitting straight relieves pressure on the spine and protects internal organs, but it takes a great deal of effort to train the body to achieve proper posture. It requires core strength, which is something many people lack. The problem is exacerbated when a person sits at a desk for many hours each day. The end result of chronic bad posture is pain. Briefly practicing improper posture can also result in acute back pain. If a person sits or sleep incorrectly for a few hours, it can trigger muscle spasms and general soreness.
6. Gallbladder Problems
A person’s gallbladder can also trigger back pain on the right side. Inflammation or gallstones are the most common causes. The pain is usually centered in the middle right part of the back and can extend upward into the shoulder. Gallstones can develop into a medical emergency, so it is important to be aware of symptoms associated with the condition in addition to back pain. If back pain is coupled with stomach pain, nausea or vomiting you should seek emergency medical care.
7. Sciatica
Sciatica is an extremely common cause of right side back pain. The sciatic nerves are located in the lower back and reach into both legs. When a herniated disc encroaches on the sciatic nerve, it results in a great deal of pain. The pain can also spread into the buttock and down the leg.
Remedies for Back Pain
The two videos below demonstrate how you can use self-treatment to ease certain types of right back pain.
This first video provides an overview of how to use yoga and other stretching techniques to ease pain and prevent future problems with back pain. It provides do-it-yourself exercises that can be done by just about anyone.
This second video provides a variety of yoga poses that are helpful for relieving back pain. They are some of the simplest yoga moves available and help to strengthen the body’s spine and core. This not only eases current back pain, but helps you prevent future spasms and soreness. The video shows ways to stretch the hip flexors and hamstrings to keep the back limber and prevent future pain.