Right flank pain radiating to the back

Pain signals from the flank and back can overlap, so a problem in one area may be felt in another. A strained muscle often hurts with lifting, twisting, coughing, or pressing the area. Kidney infection commonly presents with flank pain and may also cause fever, chills, nausea, or painful urination. Kidney stones can cause intense, wave-like pain that travels from the side toward the back or groin. A urinary tract infection may cause burning, urgency, or frequent urination; flank pain with fever deserves prompt attention.

Describe whether the pain is deep or surface-level, constant or colicky, and whether it reaches the groin, abdomen, or shoulder. Mention urine colour, fever, nausea, injury, exercise, and bowel symptoms during an assessment.

Rest from heavy lifting and use gentle heat if movement appears to trigger the pain. Drink fluids normally unless you have been told to restrict them, and do not ignore reduced urination. Write down when the pain began, how it moves, and any temperature or urinary changes. If the pain is unexplained, persistent, or recurrent, arrange a clinician review rather than repeatedly treating it as a back strain.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening pain, fever with chills, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, blood in urine, inability to pass urine, or a rigid or very tender abdomen. Get prompt assessment after a significant injury or when pain is accompanied by marked weakness or dehydration. New neurological symptoms such as leg weakness or loss of bladder control also require emergency help.

Does the radiation pattern suggest a muscle or urinary source? Would urine testing or imaging be useful? What pain relief is safe with my medicines and health conditions? Which symptoms should send me to urgent care?