When Should You Worry About Flank Pain?

Dealing with pain in the flank area can be concerning, especially during and after exercise. Understanding when you should be worried can help you take appropriate action and prevent potential health issues. This article provides insights on managing and recognizing when additional medical attention is necessary.

When to Ignore Flank Pain from Exercise

For runners and aerobics enthusiasts, occasional flank pain might be a common occurrence as they push their limits. If the pain subsides with the improvement of your fitness level, it is often a minor skeletal muscle or ligament strain that gets better over time. Your body is adapting to the increased workload as your fitness level improves. Ignoring it and pushing through the discomfort is often advised during the initial stages of building endurance.

However, if the pain doesn't subside even as your fitness level improves, or if it persists or worsens with exercise, it is wise to seek medical evaluation. Persistent or worsening pain might be indicative of a more serious issue, such as a cyst, tumor, kidney stones, or urinary tract infection. These conditions require proper diagnosis and treatment to minimize the risk of complications.

Flank Pain Caused by Aerobic Exercise: What to Do

Aerobic exercises, such as running, can sometimes lead to flank pain as you push your body to its limits. If you experience flank pain during aerobic sessions, it is essential to slow down and allow your body to acclimate to increased activity levels. It is important to recognize that improving endurance and flexibility takes time. Instead of focusing on speed, strive to improve your endurance through Long Slow Distance (LSD) training.

LSD training is a method in which you perform workouts at a steady, sustainable pace for a longer duration. This type of training helps improve your overall endurance and gradually increase your threshold for discomfort. By sacrificing speed for endurance, you can achieve better long-term fitness and reduce the risk of injury.

When Severe Flank Pain Does Not Subside

Severe flank pain that does not subside fairly quickly can be a cause for concern. This type of pain can be a sign of more serious underlying health issues, such as kidney issues, musculoskeletal problems, or vascular issues like intermittent claudication. If your flank pain is severe, persistent, or if you experience other symptoms such as fever, swelling, or difficulty urinating, it is best to consult a healthcare professional immediately.

What Causes Flank Pain and How to Treat It

Understanding the causes of flank pain is crucial in choosing the appropriate treatment. Some common causes include:

Cramping or muscle strain from physical exertion Kidney stones causing severe, sudden pain that can vary in location Urinary tract infections (UTIs) leading to pain, burning, and frequent urination Intermittent claudication caused by reduced blood flow to the leg muscles, which can occur during exercise

Treatment options for flank pain depend on the underlying cause:

If the pain is from muscle strain, applying ice, rest, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can help. For kidney stones, it is often recommended to increase fluid intake, take medications for pain and infection, and in severe cases, undergo medical procedures like extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) or surgery. UTIs usually require a course of antibiotics, along with pain relief and hydration. Intermittent claudication may require lifestyle changes, medications, or even surgical intervention to improve blood flow.

Consulting a healthcare professional is the best approach when dealing with flank pain that does not resolve with self-care measures. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, diagnose the issue, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.

Conclusion

Flank pain can be a minor issue or a sign of a more serious problem. The key is to distinguish between occasional, minor discomfort and persistent, severe pain. Ignoring the later can lead to more serious complications. If your flank pain is significant or persists, seek medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.