Why you might have lower left back pain and what to do about it.
You bend down to grab something, twist just a little too far and there it is. That deep, nagging ache in your lower left back. Maybe it started after a workout, or maybe you just woke up with it. Either way, it’s distracting, uncomfortable and possibly a little worrying.
At CityMD, we hear this complaint all the time. The good news is, most causes of lower left back pain aren’t serious. Still, pain is your body’s way of asking for attention. And when it’s one-sided, sharp, or persistent, it’s worth checking out.
Let’s take a closer look at what might be going on and how urgent care can help you get the relief you need, fast.
What causes lower left back pain?
The left side of your lower back is home to several muscles, bones, nerves and organs. That’s why pinpointing the source can be tricky without a medical exam.
Some of the most common reasons include:
- Strained muscles from overuse, heavy lifting, or awkward movements
- Herniated discs in your lower spine that press on nearby nerves
- Sciatica, which causes shooting pain down the leg when the sciatic nerve is irritated
- Kidney stones or infections, which often cause deeper, more intense pain
- Gynecological conditions like ovarian cysts or endometriosis (for women)
How do I know if my left back pain is serious?
Most back pain is uncomfortable but not dangerous. However, some signs suggest you shouldn’t wait it out.
You should visit urgent care if you experience:
- Sharp, sudden pain that doesn’t ease with rest
- Pain following a fall, accident, or awkward movement
- Numbness or tingling in your legs or feet
- Difficulty walking, standing upright, or sleeping
- Pain that comes with fever, nausea, or urinary changes
- Pain that lasts more than a few days without improvement
CityMD providers can help rule out more serious issues like kidney problems, disc injuries, or infections. That way, you can stop guessing and start recovering.
What is the best treatment for lower back pain?
The right treatment depends on what’s causing your pain. Many cases respond well to simple at-home care.
Initial treatment options may include:
- Rest (but not bed rest; gentle movement helps)
- Ice or heat depending on the stage of injury
- Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Gentle stretching or physical therapy for mobility and strength
- Hydration, especially if dehydration may be a factor in cramping
In urgent care, we may also recommend muscle relaxers. Depending on what we find, imaging (like X-rays) or a referral to a specialist might be needed.
When to visit urgent care for lower left back pain.
If your pain is interfering with daily life or not improving after a few days, it’s time to walk in. You don’t need to wait weeks for an appointment. CityMD offers on-the-spot care with no appointment needed.
We’ll assess your symptoms, provide relief and help you decide if further care is needed. Our goal is to make sure you leave with answers and a plan to feel better.
You should visit urgent care if you experience:
- Sharp, sudden pain that doesn’t ease with rest
- Pain following a fall, accident, or awkward movement
- Pain that comes with fever, nausea, or urinary changes
- Pain that lasts more than a few days without improvement
Visit the emergency room as soon as possible if you have:
- Neurologic symptoms - weakness, numbness or tingling
- Difficulty walking
- Incontinence
- Severe pain
Get relief at CityMD.
Whether it’s a pulled muscle or something more serious, CityMD’s urgent care providers are here to help. With walk-in convenience, expert care, and extended hours, we’ll help you get back on your feet—and out of pain.
As part of one care team with Summit Health, we can also connect you with an orthopedist if you need specialized follow-up care.
Visit your nearest CityMD today. We’ve got your back.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.