How Can Constipation Cause Back Pain
Constipation is a common condition that is recognizable by irregular bowel motions and trouble passing stool. While abdominal discomfort is a common symptom, some individuals also report back pain during constipation. This connection between constipation and back pain might seem surprising, but it’s actually quite common. The question remains: Can constipation cause back pain? Furthermore, we’ll also explore strategies that can be helpful.
How Does Constipation Happen?
A healthy digestive system is a smooth process. Food travels through the digestive tract, where absorption of nutrients happens, and waste products go out via bowel movements. Furthermore, constipation disrupts this smooth flow, causing stool to accumulate in the colon (large intestine) for an extended period. Here’s a closer look at the factors that cause constipation:
Diet:
Lack of Fiber: Fiber acts like a bulking agent, adding volume and softness to stool, making it easier to pass. Constipation may result from a diet lacking in foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Dehydration: Water plays a crucial role in keeping stool soft and moving smoothly through the colon. Dehydration may harden the stool and lead to constipation.
Excessive Processed Foods: In addition to being heavy in unhealthy carbs and bad fats, they frequently lack fiber. Constipation may result from these elements as they slow down the digestive process.
Medications:
Constipation is a common side effect of multiple medications. Among these are:
Pain relievers: Opioid pain medications can slow down gut motility, leading to constipation.
Antidepressants: Some antidepressants can affect the nerves that control bowel movements, causing constipation.
Iron supplements: Iron supplements are a notorious culprit for constipation.
Medical Conditions:
Additionally, underlying medical disorders might induce constipation by interfering with bowel movement. Here are a few cases:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Constipation, diarrhea, or both can be symptoms of the chronic digestive illness IBS.
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) can slow down metabolism, including digestion, leading to constipation.
Neurological Disorders: Constipation can happen due to certain neurological conditions that impact the nerves governing the muscles that allow bowel motions.
Lifestyle Factors:
Habits and lifestyle choices can also play a role in constipation. These include:
Ignoring the Urge to Have a Bowel Movement: Frequent postponement of bowel motions may result in subsequent problems passing stool.
Limited Physical Activity: Constipation can be an issue due to physical inactivity, which slows down digestion.
Stress: Constipation can become a problem due to ongoing stress, which can also impact the digestive system.
By being aware of the variables that might contribute to constipation, you can prevent it or successfully treat it when it does develop.
Why Does Constipation Cause Back Pain?
Now, let’s find out can constipation cause back pain. As a matter of fact, constipation can cause back pain in several ways.
Distension and Pressure: A buildup of stool in the colon can cause the intestines to become distended and put pressure on surrounding structures, including the muscles and nerves in the lower back. Lower back pain from this pressure may manifest as a dull aching or cramps.
Straining: Straining during bowel movements due to constipation can put excessive stress on the muscles in the lower back and pelvic floor, leading to pain and tightness.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Constipation can sometimes contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, where the muscles supporting the bladder and bowel weaken or become overly tense. This dysfunction can also cause lower back pain.
Referred Pain: In some cases, the discomfort due to a distended colon because of constipation can affect other areas, including the upper back or shoulder blades.
Where is Constipation Pain Felt in the Back?
Now, the question is, where is constipation pain felt in the back? Back pain from constipation is typically felt in the lower back, specifically in the lumbar region. The discomfort might be characterized by dull aching, cramps, or tightness. On the other hand, it might occasionally radiate to the shoulder blades or upper back.
Also read: Causes of lower back pain when standing or walking
How to Relieve Lower Back Pain from Constipation
Back pain can exacerbate the uncomfortable effects of constipation, which can be a major cause of discomfort in and of itself. Thankfully, several strategies can help alleviate both constipation and the associated back pain. If you are wondering about how to relieve lower back pain from constipation, here’s a detailed breakdown of effective methods you can try:
Dietary Adjustments
Increase Fiber Intake: Fiber is your friend when it comes to constipation and back pain relief. By including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet, you may reach your daily goal of 25–35 grams of fiber. Excellent fiber sources include berries, leafy greens, beans, lentils, whole-wheat bread, and brown rice.
Hydration is Key: Drinking lots of fluids, especially water, might make stool softer and easier to pass. Aim for eight glasses of water a day, and adjust for the climate and your level of exercise. Herbal teas can also be a hydrating choice.
Limit Processed Foods: Foods that have been processed often have low fiber content, high fat, and refined carbs. These factors may result in constipation, which can also slow digestion. However, whenever possible, choose natural foods over processed ones.
Over-the-Counter Relief (Short-Term)
Laxatives: Temporary relief from constipation can be obtained using over-the-counter laxatives. Nevertheless, it’s imperative to utilize them sparingly and exclusively for temporary management. Consult your doctor before using laxatives for extended periods.
Relaxation Techniques
Warm Bath or Sitz Bath: Soaking in a warm bath or using a sitz bath (a small tub designed for soaking the buttocks and perineum) can be immensely helpful. The warmth helps relax the muscles in your lower back and rectum, easing discomfort and potentially facilitating a bowel movement.
Physical Activity
Gentle Exercise: Bowel regularity and general digestive health are enhanced by frequent exercise. It might be helpful to engage in gentle workouts like yoga, swimming, and walking. Make it a goal to engage in moderate-intense physical activity for a minimum of half an hour every day.
Biofeedback Therapy
Muscle Control Training: Biofeedback therapy can be a valuable tool in managing constipation and back pain. This therapy helps you learn to control and relax your pelvic floor muscles, which can sometimes be tight or weak in cases of constipation. Improved pelvic floor muscle control can ease straining during bowel movements, potentially reducing back pain.
Additional Considerations
Stool Softeners: In some cases, stool softeners can be helpful, especially if you experience hard stools. In order to soften and facilitate bowel movement, lessen straining, and maybe even relieve back pain, stool softeners act by pulling water into the stool.
Maintain a Regular Bowel Schedule: Even if you don’t experience a strong desire at first, try to set aside a consistent time each day for bowel movements. Responding to the urge to have a bowel movement promptly is also important. Consistency can help regulate your digestive system.
Keep in mind that these methods are meant to treat constipation and the resulting back discomfort. After treating your constipation, if your back discomfort doesn’t go away, see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical issues. Based on your unique circumstances, they can offer a customized treatment strategy.
Can Constipation Cause Back Spasms?
Yes, constipation can sometimes cause back spasms. The strain and pressure involved in trying to pass stool can trigger involuntary muscle contractions in the lower back, leading to spasms that can be quite painful.
End Word
In conclusion, constipation can be bothersome, and back pain can be an unwelcome addition. Understanding the connection between upper back pain and constipation empowers you to address both issues effectively.
However, by incorporating preventive measures and prioritizing relaxation techniques, you can find relief and restore regularity to your digestive system. Remember, if your back pain persists despite addressing constipation, consult a back pain specialist in New Jersey like Dr. Faheem Abbasi to rule out any underlying medical conditions. At New Jersey Pain, Spine, and Sports Associates, you can get a thorough diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan for long-term relief.
FAQs on Constipation and Back Pain
Why Does My Lower Back Hurt When I’m Constipated?
The pain you feel in your lower back during constipation is likely due to the pressure exerted by a distended colon on the surrounding muscles and nerves in your lower back. Straining during bowel movements can also contribute to the pain.
How to Relieve Back Pain from Constipation?
Dietary changes that increase fiber intake and fluids, over-the-counter laxatives for temporary relief, warm baths, gentle exercise, and biofeedback therapy can all help alleviate back pain from constipation.
Can Constipation Cause Upper Back Pain?
While less common, constipation can sometimes cause referred pain that radiates to the upper back or shoulder blades. This pain originates from the distended colon but is felt in a different location.
Can I Prevent Constipation and Back Pain?
You can most likely prevent constipation and back pain by taking some preventive measures. These include eating a diet rich in fiber, drinking plenty of water, going out for at least half an hour every day, and controlling stress. You may drastically lower your chance of developing constipation and related discomfort by adopting these preventive steps into your daily routine.