Inflamed Intestine And Back Pain: Causes And Remedies

Is it true that there is a link between inflamed intestine and back pain? And if so, what is it, and what is it determined by? Let’s discover the relationship between these two problems and the remedies to eliminate them.

What Is The Relationship Between Intestines And Back Pain?

It is a common opinion that those who suffer from back pain have problems that only affect the spine. In reality, there is a connection between this area and the abdomen; in fact, it is not uncommon for people who experience pain in the lumbar region to also present intestinal symptoms, such as bloating, colitis, meteorism, and constipation. But what is the link between back pain and the intestines? And how does the latter influence a different area of ​​the body? 

In reality, these two areas are very close, so much so that at some points, they are in direct contact with each other. It has been widely demonstrated that intestinal inflammation can often also have repercussions on the spine, causing a real overload on it, which, in some cases, can degenerate into painful symptoms. The intestine is linked to the posterior abdominal wall by a series of ligaments which, if inflamed, can cause the onset of problems both in the intestinal area (for example, constipation, diarrhea, swelling) and in the back, such as stiffening of the muscles. 

Within this last category, one of the muscles most influenced by intestinal changes is the ileus psoas, which, if contracted or inflamed, frequently causes pain in the spine. This muscle, together with the piriformis, if it has shortened or contracted fibers, could cause a condition of lumbar tension, which will result in lumbago or lumbosciatica.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome And Back Pain

There is a close relationship between the spine and irritable bowel; it is no coincidence that patients who suffer from this syndrome often experience back pain. This is due to the fact that a small portion of tissue (called mesentery) of the sac that surrounds the bowels is located near the back: it, which rests precisely in front of the lumbar vertebrae, can be one of the causes of low back pain, even in virtue of the abundant presence of nerve endings that characterize this body district. 

If a person suffers from irritable bowel syndrome, the inflammation also involves the mesentery, resulting in a state of profound tension. The latter will then have repercussions on the adjacent muscles, which will tend to stiffen and contract even more; over time, a harrowing situation of low back pain, i.e., inflammation of the lumbar vertebrae, may, therefore, arise. To ascertain a possible correlation between irritable bowel syndrome and low back pain, it will be helpful to keep in mind the possible presence of some specific symptoms, including diarrhea, constipation, bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pain.

Back Pain And Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms

Research has highlighted the existence of a relationship between colitis and back pain, a relationship made even more evident by the transmission of nervous impulses through the same channels as soon as tension or a stressful situation involving the digestive organs occurs. Spinal pain does not always depend on the intestine; therefore, to verify the correctness of this diagnosis, it will be necessary to examine some factors, such as:

1. frequent digestive difficulties ;
2. back pain in conjunction with defecation ;
3. constipation or, conversely, diarrhea ;
4. meteorism ;
5. abdominal swelling ;
6. back pain upon waking and sluggish bowels ;
7. pain when passing stools ;
8. bad breath ;
9. feces with a strict consistency or, on the contrary, too soft;
10. uniform and non-localized lower back pain ;
11. Frequent presence of episodes related to irritable bowel syndrome, swollen belly, or constipation, which are accompanied by lumbar stiffness;
12. Lower back pain is not linked to the execution of specific movements but is somewhat generalized.

A further condition that can cause the appearance of lower back pain, even if the origin of the problem comes from the intestine, is diverticulitis. This pathology is caused by the inflammation of one or more diverticula (i.e., the tiny projections located along the colon), which in turn cause fever, gastrointestinal changes, and abdominal pain.

Irritable Colon And Back Pain: What Remedies

Given the close relationship between colon irritation and back pain, it is essential to analyze the symptoms linked to these two conditions, with the aim of reducing intestinal stiffness and tension. Unfortunately, there is no natural cure to eliminate irritable bowel syndrome. However, there are various remedies to regain well-being. 

Among these, one of the most important aspects to consider is the quality of your diet: observing a healthy diet rich in fresh foods significantly affects the state of the intestinal bacterial flora. In fact, the role of correct nutrition in keeping the intestine healthy has been widely demonstrated. To combat back pain and constipation, for example, it is advisable to increase the quantity of fruit and vegetables, favoring foods rich in vitamins and mineral salts. It is then essential to maintain correct hydration, remembering to drink at least 1.5 liters of water a day. 

At the same time, practical help also comes from the intake of live lactic ferments, which have an essential probiotic action that allows you to rebalance the bacterial flora present within the intestine and, consequently, reduce related problems. Another helpful strategy is magnesium, which, if introduced regularly, would have the ability to positively influence nervous and muscular inputs, as well as improve the assimilation of various nutrients; magnesium also has a rebalancing action and allows blood glucose levels to be kept stable.

In addition to a healthy diet and the intake of antioxidant and functional substances for intestinal well-being, a crucial role in improving the symptoms of the so-called “irritable colon” is played by physical movement. A light sporting activity is essential to maintain adequate intestinal transit. In contrast, a light stretching of the muscles  (of the ileus psoas and the piriformis in particular ) will help to dissolve any contractures and restore the lengthening of the muscle fibers.

What To Eat If You Suffer From Diarrhea And Back Pain

Symptoms related to colitis, back pain, and leg discomfort often also include problems regarding intestinal regularity. To improve the well-being of the intestine, it is helpful to consume meals calmly, not to be in a hurry to finish the food, and possibly take a few steps to improve digestion. Specifically, those who suffer from back pain and diarrhea may find it beneficial to consume more starchy foods such as potatoes and rice or white meats and low-acid fruit.

On the contrary, it is better to avoid eating too many fried foods, drinking alcohol, or consuming large quantities of dairy products (with the exception of yogurt), baked goods, spices, carbonated drinks, simple sugars, and smoked foods. Furthermore, in order to counteract the combination of intestinal meteorism and back pain, it will be advisable to reduce the consumption of some types of vegetables (such as onions or cabbage) and refined or packaged foods.

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