Your Bladder Knows: 10 Unexpected Pains That Point to Kidney Trouble

3. Flank Pain that Feels Deep or Internal

There’s a type of pain that settles along your side, between the bottom of your ribcage and the top of your hip. This area—the “flank”—is prime real estate for kidney discomfort. Unlike muscle soreness, flank pain tends to feel deeper, almost like it’s coming from inside rather than the surface. It’s steady and solid, not sharp or fleeting, and it doesn’t usually go away with a bit of stretching or a change in activity. Dr. Raj Dasgupta notes, “Kidney pain usually feels deeper and more internal than sore muscle back pain.” This is because your kidneys sit toward the back of your abdomen, tucked beneath the ribs. If you find yourself adjusting your position over and over, yet the ache hangs on, it might be time to think beyond pulled muscles. Flank pain that persists or comes with fever or trouble urinating is worth a gentle but timely discussion with your healthcare provider. Trusting your body’s wisdom can turn a confusing symptom into an opportunity for early, effective care.

4. Upper Back or Shoulder Blade Pain

Sometimes kidney-related pain doesn’t appear where you expect. A nagging ache between your shoulder blades or higher up in your back can actually be your kidneys asking for a little attention. This type of referred pain is due to the way nerves in your body communicate—signals can sometimes “travel,” causing discomfort far from the actual problem. Dr. Yanina Purim-Shem-Tov, an emergency medicine expert, says to pay close attention if severe upper back or shoulder pain comes on suddenly, especially if it’s partnered with nausea, dizziness, or trouble breathing. While many causes for upper back pain are benign, kidneys can “refer” pain upward, especially in urgent situations. If a new pain fits this pattern, don’t second-guess yourself—reach out for help. Every body is different, and you deserve support when something doesn’t feel quite right.