Many people experience lower back pain and wonder, “Is this back pain or kidney stones?” or “How do I know if my back pain is from my kidneys?” While both conditions can cause discomfort in the lower back area, they have different symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches.
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, located in Midtown Manhattan near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we help patients distinguish between musculoskeletal back pain and other underlying conditions to ensure they receive the right treatment.
Key Differences Between Back Pain and Kidney Stones
| Feature | Back Pain | Kidney Stones |
| Pain Location | Usually in lower back, upper back, or mid-back | Often felt in the side (flank), lower back, or abdomen |
| Pain Type | Dull, aching, or sharp; worsens with movement | Severe, cramping, or stabbing pain that comes in waves |
| Pain Triggers | Worsens with bending, lifting, or sitting for long periods | Can start suddenly without movement; pain may spread to groin |
| Relief Factors | Improves with rest, stretching, or heat therapy | Pain often persists regardless of position or movement |
| Other Symptoms | Stiffness, muscle tightness, limited range of motion | Nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, frequent urination, or blood in urine |
| Touch Sensitivity | Pain may increase with pressure on sore muscles | Kidney area may feel tender when pressed but pain is often deep inside |
If your pain changes with movement or posture, it’s more likely musculoskeletal back pain. However, if the pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by urinary symptoms, kidney stones may be the cause.
Signs Your Pain Is From Kidney Stones
Kidney stones develop when minerals and salts crystallize in the kidneys, forming hard deposits. These stones can move through the urinary tract, causing intense pain.
Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones
• Sudden, severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
• Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
• Radiating pain toward the groin or lower stomach
• Frequent urination or a persistent urge to urinate
• Burning sensation when urinating
• Blood in urine (pink, red, or brown discoloration)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills (if infection is present)
If you suspect kidney stones, seek medical attention immediately, especially if pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever or vomiting.
Signs Your Pain Is Musculoskeletal Back Pain
Lower back pain is often caused by muscle strain, spinal misalignment, disc issues, or poor posture.
Common Causes of Back Pain
• Muscle strains from lifting, bending, or prolonged sitting
• Herniated discs causing nerve irritation
• Sciatica (pain radiating down one leg)
• Spinal misalignment or poor posture
• Arthritis or degenerative disc disease
How to Tell If It’s Back Pain
• Pain worsens with movement (bending, twisting, sitting too long)
• Muscle stiffness and tightness in the lower back
• Pain improves with stretching, massage, or chiropractic adjustments
• No urinary symptoms (no burning, blood in urine, or frequent urination)
If your pain is musculoskeletal, chiropractic care can help relieve symptoms and restore mobility.
When to See a Doctor or Chiropractor
See a Doctor If:
• Your pain is severe, sudden, or comes in waves
• You have blood in your urine, nausea, vomiting, fever, or chills
• You experience difficulty urinating or severe abdominal pain
See a Chiropractor If:
• Your pain gets worse with movement or posture changes
• You have stiffness, muscle tightness, or pain that improves with stretching
• You experience chronic lower back discomfort without urinary symptoms
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we specialize in spinal alignment, muscle therapy, and postural corrections to help patients relieve back pain caused by musculoskeletal issues.
Final Thoughts: Is It Back Pain or Kidney Stones?
If your pain changes with movement, feels like muscle tightness, or improves with stretching, it’s likely back-related. If it’s sudden, severe, radiates to the groin, or is accompanied by urinary symptoms, kidney stones may be the cause.
If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, stiffness, or mobility issues, schedule an appointment at Unity Chiropractic Wellness today! Conveniently located in Midtown East near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we’re here to help you find lasting relief and improve spinal health.