Can Constipation Cause Back Pain? Causes and Treatment

Many people wonder: can constipation cause back pain? The short answer is yes—constipation can contribute to discomfort in the back, particularly in the lower region. While the connection might not be obvious at first, the two conditions often share overlapping symptoms and even causes. Chronic constipation can lead to increased pressure in the abdomen and spine, creating tension and radiating pain in the back. This blog will explore the link between constipation and lower back pain, how to identify it, and what you can do to relieve both issues effectively with help from providers like Sustain Physical Therapy and Performance.

Common Symptoms of Constipation to Watch For

Understanding the symptoms of constipation is essential for early management and relief. Recognizing these signs can also help identify if your lower back pain is linked to gastrointestinal issues. Many symptoms that accompany chronic constipation overlap with musculoskeletal pain triggers.

Constipation isn’t just about having fewer bowel movements—it comes with a variety of symptoms that can impact your day-to-day comfort. These symptoms include:

• Infrequent bowel movements (less than three times per week)
• Hard or lumpy stools that cause straining
• Abdominal bloating, cramping, or abdominal pain
• A persistent feeling of fullness
• A sensation of incomplete evacuation or rectal pressure

In some cases, constipation and lower back pain occur together. The discomfort from bowel obstruction or faecal impaction can press on nerves or muscles, leading to muscle pain, cramps and tightness in the back and hips. People experiencing lower back pain and constipation may find it difficult to sit or stand comfortably for extended periods due to pain that gets worse when sitting or standing.

How Constipation Leads to Back Pain

One of the most common questions asked is: does constipation cause back pain? The answer is yes, and the reasons are rooted in anatomy. The lower spine is located close to the rectum and colon, which become distended and heavy during prolonged constipation.

When stool accumulates and the bowel becomes bloated, it may apply pressure to the sacral nerves or pelvic floor muscles, triggering discomfort in the lower back. Individuals may feel a dull ache or radiating pain in legs or buttocks, especially when the bowel is full.

Fecal Impaction and Its Role in Back Pain

A more severe form of constipation, fecal impaction, occurs when a large mass of stool becomes hardened and stuck in the colon or rectal lining. This hardened stool can stretch the bowel wall, causing pain that radiates to the spinal discs and surrounding muscles.

In extreme cases, fecal impaction can lead to complications like overflow diarrhoea, rectal prolapse, or even neurogenic bowel, particularly in people with underlying spinal cord injury or parkinson’s disease. The increased pressure in the abdomen may also affect the sciatic nerve, adding to the discomfort.

Can Back Pain Cause Constipation?

Interestingly, the reverse can also happen—spinal conditions may lead to chronic constipation. Issues like spinal stenosis, spinal tumors, slipped disc, or a pinched nerve in the back can interfere with the normal nerve signaling needed for bowel movements.

A study published in Pain Reports explored the link between radicular low back pain—where nerve roots are involved—and constipation. It suggested that although a relationship exists, it may be less about a direct cause and more influenced by factors like the intensity of pain, sedentary behavior, and medication use. These findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive clinical assessment in cases of constipation and lower back pain.Interestingly, the reverse can also happen—spinal conditions may lead to chronic constipation. Issues like spinal stenosis, spinal tumors, slipped disc, or a pinched nerve in the back can interfere with the normal nerve signaling needed for bowel movements.

These nerve disruptions may slow down peristalsis (intestinal movement), especially in individuals with radiculopathy, herniated disk, or spinal curve disorders like scoliosis or lordosis. For some, a spinal cord injury results in long-term changes to bowel and bladder function, leading to persistent constipation.

Other Medical Conditions Causing Both Back Pain and Constipation

Some medical conditions present with both constipation and lower back pain, making diagnosis more complex. These often involve a mix of neurological, gastrointestinal, or gynecological origins.

Conditions include:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Alternating constipation and diarrhea with cramping and lower back pain.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Causes inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to abdominal discomfort and sometimes spinal inflammation.
• Endometriosis: Tissue similar to uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing both pelvic injury and lower back pain.
• Colon or rectal cancer: May present with bloody stools, unintentional weight loss, and back pain.
• Neurogenic bowel disorders: Seen in people with parkinson’s disease or spinal cord injuries, these impact nerve control of bowel movements.

These overlapping conditions highlight the importance of thorough evaluation.

Medication-Induced Constipation and Back Pain

Several common medications list constipation and lower back pain as side effects. These include opioids, certain antidepressants, antacids with calcium or aluminum, and diuretics.

Such medications may slow bowel motility and cause muscle strain or stiffness, leading to discomfort. Combined with poor hydration and low fiber diets, they can worsen existing pain symptoms, especially in those with persistent back pain.

Physical Inactivity’s Impact on Constipation and Back Pain

Inactivity is one of the most common lifestyle factors contributing to both constipation and back discomfort. When physical movement is limited, bowel motility slows and the muscles supporting the spine weaken. Poor postural habits further exacerbate the connection between inactivity, digestive trouble, and pain.

Moreover, research shared by Harvard Health explains that poor posture, particularly while sitting on the toilet, can worsen constipation. Slouching increases abdominal pressure and reduces the efficiency of the pelvic floor muscles, making it harder to pass stool. Maintaining a neutral spine and elevating the knees using a footstool can improve posture and facilitate more effective bowel movements.Being sedentary is a major factor contributing to both chronic constipation and spinal discomfort. A lack of exercise weakens the core, reduces blood circulation, and impairs digestion.

Moreover, effects of poor posture on back pain—especially when sitting for long hours—can exacerbate the strain on the pelvic floor muscles and lower spine. Encouraging gentle exercise, stretching, and postural correction can dramatically improve symptoms of lower back pain and constipation.

Identifying If Your Back Pain Is Related to Constipation

It’s essential to determine whether your lower back pain is a result of constipation or another cause. Knowing the signs can help you seek the right treatment and avoid unnecessary interventions.

Clues that your back pain may be constipation-related:

• Pain or rectal pressure that worsens before a bowel movement
• Abdominal cramping, bloating, and fullness
• Relief of lower back pain after passing stool

If symptoms include vomiting, fever, inability to pass gas, or urinary changes, seek immediate medical care to rule out a bowel obstruction or more serious condition.

Effective Treatments for Constipation and Back Pain

Managing both constipation and lower back pain requires a comprehensive approach that addresses diet, movement, and lifestyle. A combination of home remedies, medical support, and physical therapy can provide long-term relief.

Lifestyle Changes That Help Relieve Constipation

Simple lifestyle changes can significantly ease symptoms and improve bowel and spinal health:

• Dietary changes: Increase high-fiber foods like fruits, veggies, legumes, and whole grains
• Water intake: Stay hydrated to soften stool and promote motility
• Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement daily—walking, swimming, or yoga strengthens the core and stimulates digestion
• Avoid improper sleep positions and long hours of sitting
• Practice regular toilet habits to support pelvic floor muscles function

Incorporating these changes can relieve lower back pain by reducing bloating and improving alignment.

Over-the-Counter Solutions for Quick Relief

When symptoms persist, OTC remedies can provide temporary support:

• Stool softeners and laxatives: Help ease bowel movements without excessive straining
• Suppositories or an enema: Useful in cases of fecal impaction
• Fiber supplements: Add bulk and moisture to stool for easier passage
• Over-the-counter pain medication: Can help manage muscle strain and back discomfort when used responsibly

Always consult with your provider for proper use and dosage.

When to See a Doctor About Constipation and Back Pain

Don’t ignore these red flags:

• No bowel movement for 7+ days
• Bloody stools, fever, or vomiting
• Numbness or tingling in legs or buttocks
• Persistent back pain despite home care
• Signs of rectal prolapse or bowel obstruction

Early diagnosis ensures prompt treatment and better outcomes.

How Sustain Physical Therapy and Performance Can Help

At Sustain Physical Therapy and Performance, we specialize in identifying the root cause of your discomfort. Whether you’re experiencing constipation and lower back pain, or complications from a herniated disk, our expert therapists provide targeted care.

Sustain Physical Therapy back pain solutions include:

• Core stabilization and pelvic floor therapy
• Corrective exercises for lordosis, scoliosis, and sciatic nerve issues
• Manual therapy, hot or cold therapy, and guided stretching
• Education on posture, body mechanics, and functional movement

Our approach is holistic and evidence-based, with each plan tailored to your unique needs.

Conclusion

So, can constipation cause back pain? Absolutely. The digestive and musculoskeletal systems are more connected than we often realize. Whether through pressure on spinal structures, medication side effects, or a sedentary lifestyle, understanding this relationship is vital for proper treatment.

If you’re experiencing lower back pain and constipation, Sustain Physical Therapy and Performance can help you regain comfort and confidence with proven, personalized care.

FAQs

What does constipation back pain feel like?

It often feels like a dull ache or pressure in the lower back, especially when you’re bloated or haven’t had a bowel movement. Pain may be accompanied by a feeling of fullness, rectal pressure, or abdominal cramping.

What simple trick empties your bowels immediately?

Hydration, consuming a warm beverage, and engaging in gentle physical activity like walking can stimulate a bowel movement quickly. In more stubborn cases, suppositories, fiber supplements, or an enema may help.

Can a blocked bowel cause back pain?

Yes. A bowel obstruction or faecal impaction can press on nerves and tissues near the spine, leading to significant lower back pain and potentially serious complications if left untreated.