What is it?

Flank pain is pain affecting the areas in both sides of the lower back, between the pelvis and the ribs. Flank pain may be caused due to many reasons, the most common causes for flank pain are kidney stones and kidney infections. Other causes may include muscle strains, urinary tract infections, urethral obstruction, arthritis, injury in the lower back, liver disease, renal artery disease, shingles, abdominal aortic aneurysm and more. Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include imaging tests, blood tests, urine tests, and cystoscopy. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics, pain medications, rest, and surgical procedures.