Differential Diagnosis for Pain at Lower Back Right Side
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Musculoskeletal strain: This is the most common cause of lower back pain, often resulting from overuse, heavy lifting, or sudden movement. The pain is typically localized to the lower back and can radiate to the buttocks or thighs.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lumbar disc herniation: Herniation of the intervertebral disc can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back and radiate down to the legs. The pain is often unilateral and can be exacerbated by coughing, sneezing, or heavy lifting.
- Degenerative disc disease: Wear and tear on the spinal discs can cause chronic lower back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The pain can be unilateral or bilateral and may radiate to the buttocks or thighs.
- Sacroiliitis: Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint can cause pain in the lower back, buttocks, and thighs. The pain is often unilateral and can be exacerbated by weight-bearing activities.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Kidney stone: A kidney stone can cause severe, sharp pain in the lower back that radiates to the groin. The pain is often unilateral and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and urinary frequency.
- Pyelonephritis: Infection of the kidney can cause flank pain, fever, and urinary symptoms. The pain is often unilateral and can be severe.
- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix can cause pain in the lower right abdomen that may radiate to the lower back. The pain is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever.
- Aortic aneurysm: A ruptured or dissecting aortic aneurysm can cause severe, tearing pain in the lower back that radiates to the abdomen or legs. This is a medical emergency.
Rare Diagnoses
- Spinal tumor: A tumor in the spine can cause chronic lower back pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs. The pain is often unilateral and can be accompanied by weight loss and fatigue.
- Inflammatory spondyloarthropathy: Conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis can cause chronic lower back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The pain is often bilateral and can be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue.
- Osteomyelitis: Infection of the bone can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the lower back. The pain is often unilateral and can be accompanied by fever and chills.