Why Does the Left Side of My Body Hurt, and What Can I Do to Find Relief?

When one side of your body hurts, it might be caused by a few different things. Sometimes, the brain plays a part. For example, a condition called thalamic pain syndrome occurs when the thalamus, a part of your brain that helps send pain signals, isn’t working properly. There are even special treatments like deep brain stimulation used in severe cases. Other times, pain can come from the muscles or tissues in your abdominal wall. This type of pain might be from muscle strain, inflammation, or injury, and doctors often use specific tests to see if that is the case. Additionally, sometimes pain on one side of the body is linked to stress or emotional factors, a condition called somatization, where the body reacts to feelings with physical pain. To find relief, it is best to consult a healthcare provider. They will ask about your pain, perform an exam, and possibly run tests to know the true cause. Treatments might include pain relievers, physical therapy to strengthen muscles and ease muscle pain, and ways to handle stress better.