If you already have a hernia and experience back pain. Your thoughts might wander toward “Can a hernia cause back pain?” While it seems unlikely, the connection isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds. If you have chronic back pain, it puts extra pressure on your abdominal walls during activities. This pressure triggers the development of hernia. Just like this, some types of hernia are linked to back pain. One problem unintentionally leads to another.
Connection Between Hernia & Back Pain
Hernias and back pain are connected because hernias can affect the tissues and nerves around them. When a hernia happens, it can push on nearby nerves or muscles. This stress causes pain that might spread to the back or lead to discomfort in the lower back.
Hernias can also change how a person moves or stands as they try to avoid pain. These changes can strain the back muscles and spine, causing tension and long-term back pain. While hernias mainly affect certain areas, they can impact posture and nerves in ways that lead to back pain.
What Kind of Hernia Causes Back Pain?
Some hernias can cause back pain, especially spinal and lumbar hernias.
- Spinal Hernias: Also known as herniated or slipped discs, these happen when the inner part of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer. This can press on nearby nerves, causing back pain and sometimes tingling numbness or pain that radiates to the legs.
- Lumbar Hernias: These occur in the lower back between the hip bone and ribs. They can cause back pain, especially during activities like coughing or lifting.
Abdominal hernias (like inguinal or umbilical hernias) are less likely to directly cause back pain. However, they may still lead to referred pain if they compress nearby nerves.
How Do You Tell If Your Back Pain Stems from a Hernia?
To figure out if a hernia causes your back pain, look for the following signs:
- Location of Pain: If your back pain is along with a visible bulge in your abdomen or groin, it could be an abdominal hernia. Pain in the lower back might suggest a spinal hernia (herniated disc).
- Type of Pain: Hernia pain is usually a dull ache or pressure, but it can also feel sharp, shooting, or burning. The pain might get worse with activity or standing, and you feel better when you rest.
- Radiating Symptoms: If you feel pain, tingling, or numbness in your legs along with back pain, it could mean a herniated disc is pressing on a nerve.
- Activity Impact: Notice how your pain changes with movement. If certain activities make the pain worse but lying down helps, it may be linked to a hernia.
- Other Symptoms: Be aware of symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits. They may indicate complications from a hernia that need immediate medical attention.
Closing Note
A back pain followed by a hernia makes you wonder, “Can a hernia cause back pain?” Yes, but only certain kinds of hernias. If you think you might have a hernia, whether from a new bulge or persistent back pain, it’s important to see a healthcare professional.
Visit Dr. Rick Ngo at Texas Hernia & Surgical Specialists. Our doctor is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and is recognized for his expertise in hernia surgery. Dial (888) 365-1544 to book an appointment.