When back pain is serious: Sometimes the body gives signals that aren't limited to the muscles. A different kind of pain can indicate a kidney problem.

How can back pain be a sign of kidney disease?

How Back Pain Can Indicate Kidney Disease: Back pain is generally considered a common problem. Sitting for long periods of time, poor posture, or excessive exercise are often considered the cause. In most cases, this is true. However, sometimes the body gives signals that are not limited to muscles. Persistent, distinct pain may indicate a kidney problem.

According to medical experts, not all types of back pain are the same. Muscle pain typically worsens with movement, subsides with rest, and is relieved by warm compresses or stretching. However, kidney pain is distinct in that it feels deeper, isn't affected much by movement, and doesn't subside easily even with rest. This distinction makes it crucial to identify.

What do experts say?

Dr. Ratan Jha told TOI that back pain is often dismissed as a muscle problem, especially when it starts gradually. However, kidney pain behaves differently, which is important to understand.