Don’t Ignore Back Pain After Food Poisoning, Say Experts

Hyderabad:Several people recovering from food poisoning have begun reporting unexpected back pain, prompting concerns and questions around a possible link. Experts say the pain is real; while often temporary, it should not always be ignored.

“Back pain following food poisoning is not uncommon,” said Dr D. Ravi Sekhar Reddy, senior consultant physician and diabetologist. “Though it’s not the most obvious symptom, intense abdominal cramping due to intestinal infections can radiate to the back. Repeated vomiting may also lead to muscle soreness in the abdominal and back regions.”

According to Dr Reddy, most cases are due to muscle strain, inflammation spreading from the gut or dehydration-related muscle pain. However, more serious complications can occasionally be the underlying cause.

“Kidney infections or stones can mimic back pain and are usually accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever or pain during urination,” he said. “Pancreatitis and gallbladder issues may also begin in the abdomen and extend to the back.”

Hydration and rest are key in recovery, and over-the-counter painkillers may help with muscle soreness. But if pain is persistent, severe or accompanied by high fever or blood in urine, medical intervention is necessary.

Dr Sai Kalyan Savarapu, a senior spine surgeon, explained the neurological basis of the pain. “The same nerves that carry pain signals from the stomach also supply parts of the back. This 'referred' pain, especially in the thoraco-lumbar region (in the middle of the back), is common. Dehydration can lead to painful muscle spasms and curled posture or prolonged bed rest during illness can also strain the back.”

In rare cases, the pain may be a sign of more serious post-infectious conditions.

“One condition we see is reactive sacroiliitis or arthritis, especially in patients with the HLA-B27 gene, triggered by bacterial gastroenteritis,” Dr Savarapu said. “Another rare but severe cause could be infective spondylodiscitis (an infection that affects the bones of the spine) or a spinal epidural abscess (collection of pus the area between the bones of the spine and the spinal cord). Both are caused by bacterial infections and are rare but serious conditions.”

Dr Sandeep Ghanta, senior consultant, internal medicine and diabetologist, echoed similar concerns. “Muscle cramps due to dehydration or colitis-induced referred pain are common after severe food poisoning. But if these are ruled out and pain continues, kidney involvement must be investigated.”

Experts advise patients to monitor their symptoms and seek medical help if pain persists or is accompanied by urinary issues, fever or one-sided back discomfort. In most cases, adequate hydration, mineral replenishment and rest are enough for recovery.