Finding The Relationship Between Abdominal And Back Pain

Dealing with pain can be quite a challenge for many, whether the source of that pain is an acute attack or a chronic problem. There are thousands of kinds of aches and pains that our bodies can go through in a lifetime, and finding the cause of each of them can become quite a task for many. Two kinds of pains are often related to one another; abdominal and back pain. Many times, when experiencing one of these types of pain, the other will accompany it as well. It is important to realize the connection between these so a diagnosis of the problem can be found, and a measure can be taken to help this type of pain.

Abdominal And Back Pain Go Hand In Hand

Often, when abdominal and back pains occur simultaneously, what is happening can be a symptom of what is known as “referred” pain. This is when pain from one spot is radiating to another area of the body, causing similar symptoms at that point. Often, when there is severe lower back pain, the abdominal region can hurt right along with the back because of radiating pain. This happens often during pregnancy when muscles are contracting in the abdominal region, and they are pulling on the back muscles as they contract. Women sometimes experience this effect during their menstrual cycle as well. Changing hormones and inflammation can play a role in this abdominal and back pain relationship.

Certain disorders or diseases can cause both abdominal and back pain, such as gallbladder disorders. Gallstones cause an excruciating pain to radiate throughout the entire stomach and abdominal cavity and into the chest and back. Many people have mistaken a heart attack for a gallstone attack. Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis can affect the lower back as well, because of the increased inflammation in the abdominal region. The abdominal muscles also become weaker over time without exercise, which in turn affects the lower back. Exercising these core muscles can help to prevent a great deal of abdominal and back pain.

Being alert to the specific pains of one’s body and taking care of your health is the best prevention for long-term chronic abdominal and back pain. Knowing the connections and relationships between disorders and how the body functions are very important in maintaining a healthy and fit body for years to come.