Back pain is often referred to as the “illness of the century”. In fact, it affects a vast majority of the population at one point or another in their lives. In almost all cases, it is a purely mechanical problem: lumbago, disc herniation or the beginning of osteoarthritis.
However, a question persists for many patients: can back pain be a hidden symptom of colon cancer? According to Dr Gérald Kierzek, if this link exists, it remains exceptional and generally concerns advanced stages of the disease.
What type of back pain can indicate cancer?
Unlike classic back pain linked to a false movement, that of a tumor pathology presents so-called inflammatory characteristics.
“This type of pain manifests itself in a deep and constant manner, and it has the particularity of not diminishing with rest. immediately defines Dr. Kierzek. On the contrary, the pain tends to get worse during the night or over the weeks.
Our expert specifies that this back pain generally resists usual treatments, such as paracetamol or classic anti-inflammatories.
“In some cases, the pain can also radiate to the buttocks, pelvis or legs, and be accompanied by painful sensations in the abdominal or pelvic area. It is this unusual persistence which should encourage vigilance“.
How to differentiate ordinary back pain from a warning sign?
It is essential not to give in to panic at the slightest turn of the kidney. Indeed, there are notable differences between benign pain and serious pathology.
“Common back pain is often triggered by physical exertion or poor posture. It is generally relieved by heat, rest or physiotherapy sessions, with healing seen in two to six weeks.” our expert further specifies.
Conversely, back pain becomes worrying when it appears for no clear reason, particularly in people over 50. What should really alert the patient is the association of this back pain with digestive or general signs.
“The presence of blood in the stools, a recent and lasting change in transit (diarrhea or new constipation), unexplained weight loss or intense fatigue are all signals that require in-depth medical exploration.”
Can an isolated symptom reveal the disease?
The question of whether back pain can be the only symptom of colon cancer is legitimate. Dr Kierzek wants to be reassuring: the probability is almost zero in a young person or someone up to date with their screening.
“In the rare published clinical cases, back pain only occurs alone if bone metastases have already reached the vertebrae or if a large tumor mass in the pelvis compresses the nerve roots.” he recalls.
In medical practice, other digestive or general symptoms almost always end up appearing to complete the clinical picture.
Colon cancer is therefore not the primary cause that we think of when faced with isolated low back pain, especially since other cancers, such as those of the breast or prostate, have a much higher propensity to spread towards the spine.
When should you consult your doctor quickly?
Dr. Gérald Kierzek advises making a medical appointment within one to two weeks if the pain persists beyond a month despite first-line treatments.
“This approach becomes imperative if the pain is immediately intense or if it is accompanied by at least one unusual digestive sign, such as persistent bloating or stools whose appearance has changed.” he says again.
Medical imaging, in particular CT or MRI of the spine, will then help to remove doubts by revealing possible lesions. Finally, an emergency consultation is necessary in extremely rare situations where back pain becomes unbearable and is accompanied by serious neurological signs, such as paralysis of the legs or incontinence.
In summary, if a link between back pain and colon cancer exists, it remains a medical exception. Most often, the back suffers from our sedentary lifestyles. However, the persistence of nocturnal pain associated with transit disorders should prompt consultation. Remember that regular screening remains the most effective way to prevent serious complications.