Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, M.D.

When pain develops in an area of the body, you typically assume that the source of the pain also rests in that location. For example, a bruise is an indication of trauma to that area of the body, and a fractured finger is the source of pain in the finger region.

However, the problem isn’t always housed in the area where symptoms appear to be emanating from. This is especially true when it comes to the spine. Many conditions can lead to back pain and discomfort, but it doesn’t mean that the issue is rooted in your spinal column. Targeting the back because that’s where symptoms exist can prove ineffective if another problem is actually at play. In today’s blog, we take a look at five instances where your back symptoms may not actually be caused by a spinal condition.

When Back Pain Is Caused By Something Else

Let’s take a closer look at some conditions that can pose as a back problem because they can lead to symptoms in the spine.

1. Kidney Issues – Because of their positioning in the body, kidney issues oftentimes lead to symptoms in the upper and middle portion of the spine. Kidney infections or the presence of kidney stones can lead to pain or discomfort in your back. Sometimes kidney issues cause additional symptoms like fever or chills.
2. Endometriosis – Endometriosis is a condition that involves issues with the lining of the uterus, leading to pain and inflammation in the area. Endometrial tissue overgrowth can lead to inflammation and compression of nerves that trigger symptoms in the spine, and hormonal changes during endometriosis can make spinal inflammation worse, also exacerbating symptoms. Over time, endometriosis can lead to the development of scar tissue that impacts surrounding tissues and your natural spinal alignment. Addressing your endometriosis can help resolve your back pain.
3. Pregnancy – Estimates suggest that anywhere from 40-80% of pregnant women deal with back pain during their pregnancy. Womb growth can throw off their center of gravity and impact their spinal alignment, and spinal tissues can be stretched or destabilized as you prepare for delivery. Your women’s care provider can suggest some tips for overcoming pregnancy-related back pain, but oftentimes this resolves after childbirth.
4. Fibromyalgia – Fibromyalgia describes widespread, chronic musculoskeletal pain and general fatigue. Although it can develop in different areas of the body, because of all the stress our spine handles on a regular basis, it’s common for symptoms of the condition to be more noticeable in the back. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but there are ways to manage flareups and minimize symptoms. Your primary care physician or a rheumatologist can assist in your management of fibromyalgia.
5. Pancreas/Gallbladder Issues – Problems with your pancreas or gallbladder can lead to the onset of back pain, oftentimes felt in the mid back. Pancreas inflammation (pancreatitis) or gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) are the most common issues with these organs that lead to pain or severe discomfort in the middle of the back.

Back pain is oftentimes caused by a spinal issue, but if it’s not, your primary care physician will investigate these issues to see if that’s where the problem truly lies. We’ll help you manage any spinal issues you’re experiencing and refer you to the right provider if you need a different professional on the case.

For more information, or for help with a specific spine issue, connect with Dr. Sinicropi and the team at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.

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