Back pain in the right side

Back pain in the right side can stem from a variety of causes. In some cases, the discomfort resolves with rest. In others, it may point to an underlying spinal or nerve condition that requires specialized care. If you have ongoing or severe pain, especially with nerve issues or mobility problems, it’s time to see a neurosurgeon or physiatrist. They can help you get a diagnosis and focused treatment.

Common Spine-Related Causes of Back Pain in the Right Side

Muscle Strain or Ligament Sprain

A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. A sprain affects ligaments, which are the connective tissues between bones. These injuries are among the most common causes and often result from sudden movements, heavy lifting, or repetitive force.

People are at a higher risk if they:

Engage in high-intensity exercise without a proper warm-up
Sit for long periods with poor posture
Lift heavy objects incorrectly

Symptoms typically include:

Stiffness
Tenderness
Difficulty standing straight
Pain with movement

Oftentimes, mild cases can improve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. However, severe strains may require physical therapy or prescription medications.

Herniated Disc and Sciatica

A herniated disc occurs when the cushioning material between the spine’s vertebrae ruptures. The disc material may protrude out and press on nearby nerves. If the herniation affects the right side of the lower spine, it can lead to pain that radiates down the leg, a condition known as sciatica.

People with a herniated disc often experience:

Sharp pain
Numbness
Tingling

These symptoms can worsen when sitting, bending, or lifting. Many cases improve with rest and physical therapy. But severe nerve compression may require steroid injections or surgery.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord or nerves. Symptoms often include:

Pain or cramping in the lower back or legs
Numbness or weakness, typically worsening with activity
Relief when bending forward or sitting

Advanced imaging and specialized treatment plans are often required to manage this progressive condition.

Facet Joint Dysfunction

Facet joints are small stabilizing joints between each vertebra. Degeneration or injury to these joints can cause localized pain on one side of the back. It may be most noticeable with twisting or extension movements. This type of pain may respond to targeted physical therapy, injections, or other non-surgical treatments.

Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction

The SI joint connects the spine to the pelvis. Inflammation or dysfunction in this area may result in:

Pain on one side of the lower back or buttocks
Discomfort when sitting for long periods
Referred pain to the hip or upper thigh

Diagnosis often involves a physical exam and imaging. Treatment may include manual therapy, strengthening exercises, or injections.

Other Causes of Right-Sided Back Pain

While spinal or nerve-related issues are common causes, other conditions may contribute to pain on the right side of the back. These are often evaluated and ruled out during your diagnostic workup:

Kidney infection or stones: May cause sharp or aching pain, often with fever or urinary symptoms
Appendicitis: Can present with lower back discomfort if the inflammation is severe
Ovarian cysts or endometriosis (in women): May cause pelvic and referred back pain
Prostatitis or testicular torsion (in men): Can produce pelvic pain that radiates to the lower back

When to See a Specialist for Back Pain in the Right Side

Certain symptoms require urgent medical attention, including:

Severe pain with fever
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Sharp, radiating pain with numbness or weakness in the legs
Pain associated with nausea, vomiting, or abdominal tenderness

Back pain that persists or interferes with daily function deserves expert evaluation. A neurosurgeon or physiatrist can help pinpoint the cause and recommend an effective treatment plan.
Don’t continue to live with back pain in the right side – schedule an appointment today!