Musculoskeletal Causes
A squeezed feeling in the sides often originates from the muscles in the area, including the intercostal muscles between the ribs and the abdominal muscles. This discomfort, commonly known as flank pain, can be caused by several factors.
Muscle Strains, Spasms, and Related Factors
Muscle strains and spasms can feel like sudden, sharp contractions or lingering tightness. These can be triggered by overexertion from activities like heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, poor posture, or even stress and tension.
Spinal Issues and Nerve Compression
Pain can also stem from the spine, potentially involving compressed nerves. Conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis can pinch nerve roots, leading to pain that radiates to the sides. Sciatica, typically associated with leg pain, can sometimes cause a squeezing sensation extending to the sides due to nerve compression in the lower spine.
Internal Organ-Related Issues
Pain from internal organs can manifest as referred pain in the sides. Recognizing signs of organ-related causes is important.
Kidney Problems
The kidneys, located on either side of the spine beneath the ribcage, can be a source of flank pain. Kidney stones passing through the ureter are a common cause of intense, wave-like pain, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or blood in the urine. Kidney infections can also cause pain on one or both sides, along with fever and painful urination.
Digestive and Gastrointestinal Disorders
Digestive issues frequently lead to pain in the abdomen and flanks. Common culprits include trapped gas and constipation, which can cause cramping pain. Gallstones can cause intense cramping in the upper right abdomen that may radiate to the back. Pancreatitis can cause severe upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's can result in abdominal cramps felt in the sides.
Other Potential Causes
Other possible causes for a squeezed feeling in the sides include the stretching of ligaments during pregnancy (round ligament pain), nerve pain from shingles, or conditions related to the female reproductive system like ovarian cysts or severe menstrual cramps.
Comparison Table: Muscle vs. Organ Pain
| Feature | Muscular Pain | Organ Pain |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Overuse, injury, tension, poor posture, dehydration | Issues with kidneys, gallbladder, pancreas, or intestines |
| Trigger | Worsens with movement, bending, twisting, or pressure on the area | Often unrelated to movement; can be triggered by eating fatty foods (gallstones) or may come in waves (kidney stones) |
| Accompanying Symptoms | May have tenderness at the site, muscle weakness | Can include fever, nausea, vomiting, changes in urination or bowel habits |
| Duration | Can be intermittent or persistent, but often responds to rest and stretching | Can be constant, occur in waves (colicky), or not improve with typical remedies |
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical help if a squeezing sensation in your sides is accompanied by symptoms such as a high fever, uncontrollable nausea and vomiting, blood in urine or stools, pain spreading to the chest, neck, or shoulder, inability to urinate or have a bowel movement, a rigid abdomen, or, if pregnant, pain with bleeding or other worrying signs. Persistent, severe, or worsening side pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
At-Home Remedies and Management
For mild cases, management includes resting the affected area, applying heat to relax muscles or ice to reduce inflammation, gentle stretching, staying well-hydrated, and practicing stress management techniques.
Conclusion
A squeezed feeling in the sides can be due to various causes, from common muscle issues to more serious internal organ problems. While some causes are manageable at home, it is crucial to recognize signs that necessitate medical attention. Consulting a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment is the safest approach, ensuring that any underlying health concerns are addressed effectively.
For more in-depth information about muscular pain and injury prevention, refer to reliable sources such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
