Published on: 4/7/2025
Kidneys are a common cause of flank pain. Staying well hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and managing any underlying health conditions are likely beneficial no matter the cause of the pain.
Left flank can have many causes but pain or discomfort in the area is commonly related to the kidney. Because of that, taking care of your kidneys and overall health may help prevent left flank pain. A key preventive measure is drinking plenty of water daily. Good hydration helps flush out waste products and prevents mineral buildup that can lead to kidney stones—a common cause of flank pain. A balanced diet low in salt and rich in fruits and vegetables supports kidney health. Regular exercise and a healthy weight can reduce your risk of conditions that stress the kidneys. If you have a history of kidney problems or other health conditions, work closely with your doctor to manage them effectively. Keep in mind that while flank pain can have causes unrelated to the kidneys, maintaining good overall health is beneficial regardless of the underlying cause.
(References)
Dewar MJ, Chin JL. Chronic renal pain: An approach to investigation and management. Can Urol Assoc J. 2018 Jun;12(6 Suppl 3):S167-S170. doi: 10.5489/cuaj.5327. PMID: 29875044; PMCID: PMC6040625.
Feit L, John D, Delgado Torres N, Sinert R. Flank pain and hematuria is not always a kidney stone. Am J Emerg Med. 2021 Feb;40:225.e1-225.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2020.07.046. Epub 2020 Jul 24. PMID: 32958382.
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