Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

dull pain right mid-back

This came on suddenly 3 nights ago, enough to wake me and make me unable to get back to sleep. It is a dull slow ache in the mid back right side that is relieved a bit by shifting positions but returns quickly.  The first day I was nauseous and unable to eat, there is still a bit of that but no vomiting anymore.   I am a 63 year old woman, overweight but active.  Could this be just muscle  (have tried hot and cold packs but they make no difference), kidney? or stomach ulcer (Pepto Bismal and ginger ale helped settle stomach a bit)
thank you
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Thanks so much for your reply, very kind of you.  I had ultrasound on kidneys/pancreas/spleen/liver and gall bladder (all ok) and a spine x-ray that showed DISH. During all this the back pain was abating and I had gotten some back massage from Core Fitness. Then an arthroscopy last week on my right knee last week (which was successful).  Since then there has been very little back pain, just a bit of tightness but none of the constant dull pain.  Perhaps my knee had thrown my back out.  The knee joint was uncomfortable but nothing like the pack pain and I didn't relate the two.
thanks again for your input, Dr Kaul.
Helpful - 0
1711789 tn?1361308007
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi there!

Well, without a clinical evaluation it would be difficult to determine the cause of the pain. Mid-back could be related to gastritis/ peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, spinal issues, neuro-muscular causes, cardiovascular abnormalities etc. If you have history of gastritis, you could try taking OTC antacids and see if these seem to help. If these bring little relief I would suggest consulting a primary care physician or an internist for a primary evaluation. After a cause is identified it can be managed accordingly or specialist care may be sought.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Back & Neck Community

Top Pain Answerers
Avatar universal
st. louis, MO
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Find out how beta-blocker eye drops show promising results for acute migraine relief.
Could it be something you ate? Lack of sleep? Here are 11 migraine triggers to look out for.
Find out if PRP therapy right for you.
Tips for preventing one of the most common types of knee injury.
Here are 10 ways to stop headaches before they start.
Tips and moves to ease backaches