Can Constipation Cause Back Pain?

So you can't poop and have back pain? Constipation itself is not typically a cause of back pain, but it can lead to other conditions that may cause back pain. Read on to learn more and how fiber can help with constipation.

What is Constipation?

Via media.giphy.com

Constipation is a common digestive problem that happens when you have difficulty passing stools or have infrequent bowel movements. Think hard, dry poop pellets that are hard to pass. It often includes bloating, abdominal pain, and a feeling that something is left over after going number two.

There are many potential causes of constipation, including:

1. Insufficient intake of fiber 
2. Lack of physical activity
3. Dehydration, not enough water
4. Taking certain medications like pain meds, antidepressants, and iron supplements
5. Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause
6. Medical conditions, such as IBS, hypothyroidism, and neurological conditions

How to Treat Constipation?

To treat constipation, there are several remedies that you can try including:

1. Increasing your intake of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and/or fiber supplements like Bonny
2. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
3. Engaging in regular physical activity

What About Constipation and Back Pain?

Constipation itself is not typically a cause of back pain, but it can lead to other conditions that may cause back pain.

Fecal Impaction

Fecal impaction is a serious condition that occurs when a large, hard mass of stool becomes stuck in the rectum and is unable to be expelled through a bowel movement. It is a common complication of constipation, particularly in older adults and those who have difficulty with mobility or underlying medical conditions that affect bowel function.

Fecal impaction can cause back pain because of the pressure that the impacted stool puts on the muscles and nerves in the lower back and pelvis. When a person has a fecal impaction, the rectum becomes distended and swollen, which can cause pain in the lower back and pelvis. (That sounds painful!) In addition, straining to try to pass the impacted stool can also cause muscle spasms in the back, which can lead to back pain.

If you are experiencing back pain in conjunction with fecal impaction, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Fecal impaction can lead to serious complications if left untreated, and it is important to have the impacted stool removed to relieve the pressure and prevent further complications. Your healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the severity of your condition and any underlying medical conditions you may have.

Strain and Pain of Trying to Go

South Park / Via media.giphy.com

If you are constipated and straining to go number two, this can put extra pressure on your abdomen and pelvic area, which can cause pain in your lower back. In addition, if you are experiencing constipation and have a condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), this can also cause pain in the lower back.

Other Sources of Back Pain

There are other common conditions that can cause back pain:

1. Muscle strain: This can occur when the muscles in the back are overworked or strained due to overexertion, poor posture, or improper lifting technique.

2. Excess body weight: Being overweight or obese can put extra strain on the muscles and joints in the back, leading to pain.

3. Lack of movement: A sedentary lifestyle or prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to muscle weakness and stiffness, which can cause back pain.

4. Spinal cord injury: Trauma to the spinal cord, such as a car accident or sports injury, can cause back pain.

5. Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the outer layer. This can cause back pain, as well as pain that radiates down the legs.

6. Tumor: Back pain can be a symptom of a tumor, either benign or malignant, that is growing in or near the spine.

It is important to see a healthcare professional if you are experiencing ongoing and/or server back pain.

Bonny Can Help With Constipation