Back Pain
Kidneys
It’s not your kidneys. Kidneys cause pain when you have a kidney stone or a really bad kidney infection. In both of these cases, the pain is severe. If you have general, low back pain that comes and goes, day to day, and changes depending on your position, 9.9 times out of 10- it is NOT your kidneys. However, if you are concerned or have questions, call your doctor or primary care provider and make an appointment. If you are in fact having severe symptoms (fever, chills, nausea, vomiting) go to the Emergency Room.
Muscles
Most nagging low back pain is from muscles and bone. Stretching and exercising are recommended. If the pain is severe, go see your primary care provider. You may need physical therapy or even imaging like an Xray or MRI.
Pain Medications
Some of the most helpful medications are not friendly to the kidneys. If you have normal kidney function (see the topic about “kidney function” in the Resources section of the site) medications like ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve and Motrin can be helpful. If you find yourself using these on a daily basis, it’s time to stop. Over time, using too much of these drugs WILL harm your kidneys. So just be mindful. If you are using BC Powder or Goody’s- I recommend opening the package, walking to the trash can and dumping it all out. Your kidneys will thank you.
Kidney Beans 