Irritable bowel syndrome does not directly cause lower back pain, but the symptoms of IBS can create an indirect pain or what is known as “referred pain” Referred pain is pain that is felt not at the actual site of origin. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as bloating, gas, and constipation can all create lower back pain. Not all people in Jacksonville with IBS symptoms have lower back pain, but experiencing lower back pain is not uncommon. Similarly, muscle soreness, fatigue, and headache are all indirectly linked with IBS even if the condition itself does not directly cause these problems. When people with irritable bowel syndrome experience lower back pain, the solutions include addressing the root cause through improved management of IBS symptoms.
Even though there is no known cure for irritable bowel syndrome, the symptoms of IBS can be managed with lifestyle changes, primarily to the diet but also to exercise and relaxation regimes. Changing the diet or supplementing with probiotics can reduce symptoms like gas, bloating, and constipation. Reducing primary IBS symptoms in the digestive tract through doctor-recommended treatments can therefore reduce referred pain. Likewise, stress reduction can lead to IBS symptom management including the reduction of pain. In addition to meditation, yoga, and other stress reduction methods, people with IBS may benefit from psychological interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapies that can help a person achieve greater mastery over both body and mind.
The lower back pain could be unrelated completely to the IBS, which is why it is imperative to consult a doctor if the pain persists. Taking anti-inflammatory medications or painkillers may provide temporary relief. However, pharmacological interventions cannot substitute for long-term solutions that require an identification of the root causes of back pain and irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.
