Can Constipation Cause Back Pain?

Constipation is an issue million of people face, but many do not realise it can sometimes lead to discomfort beyond the gut, including back pain. If you are wondering “can constipation cause back pain,” or have experienced this combination yourself, there is a clear connection supported by medical research. In today’s blog, we will explore how constipation and back pain are related, why back pain can sometimes cause constipation, and effective remedies- highlighting the proven benefits of green kiwifruit among other natural options.​

Can Constipation Cause Back Pain?

Constipation can cause back pain in a subset of cases, especially when severe. When stool builds up and the intestines swell, this pressure may sometimes press on nerves in the lower spine, resulting in a dull, aching backache. The pain is typically not sharp and usually coincides with other signs of constipation, such as bloating and abdominal discomfort. In more severe constipation, hard stool can create faecal impaction. This condition is particularly common in older adults and is known to cause persistent lower back pain due to the pressure exerted on nearby nerves and tissues.​

Additionally, chronic constipation is a prominent symptom in some cases of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and although rare, IBS itself has been linked as a cause of lower back pain through referred pain pathways.​

Why Back Pain Can Trigger Constipation

The relationship is not one way. Back pain, especially involving spinal injuries, nerve compression, or even conditions like Parkinson’s disease, can interfere with the nerves controlling bowel function. Reduced mobility is another contributing factor, as inactivity decreases gut motility and transit time, increasing the likelihood of constipation. Opioid pain medications, often prescribed for chronic back issues, are a well-documented cause of slow bowel movements and hard stool.​

Recognising When to Seek Help

The majority of cases where constipation and back pain occur together are not serious and will respond to home remedies. However, if back pain is severe, sudden, or occurs with symptoms such as blood in stool, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, or other alarm symptoms, medical care is required immediately.​

Simple and Effective Constipation Relief

Natural constipation relief starts with practical lifestyle and dietary changes:

  • Drink plenty of water during the day to keep stool soft and easy to pass.
  • Eat foods rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes.
  • Regular exercise (including walking) encourages the natural movement of the bowels.
  • Avoid holding on when you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, as delaying can worsen constipation.

The Role of Green Kiwifruit

Among natural remedies, green kiwifruit stands out for its gentle but effective action in relieving constipation. Supported by clinical research, eating two green kiwifruits a day has been shown to significantly increase the number of weekly bowel movements and improve gastrointestinal comfort in both healthy adults and those with functional constipation or IBS-C. Kiwifruit contains actinidin, a natural enzyme aiding protein digestion, as well as both soluble and insoluble fibre for stool bulking and softening. Green kiwifruit and supplements like Actazin® are also FODMAP-friendly, making them suitable for many with sensitive guts.​

Other effective natural supports include prunes, apples, pears, figs, psyllium husk, and flax seeds, though consumers report lower satisfaction for symptom relief when consuming these foods alone compared to kiwifruit. Each can provide fibre and hydration, enhancing normal gut motility.​

Final Thoughts

Constipation and back pain may be more closely related than you expect, with pressure from built-up stool sometimes causing pain in the lower back, and chronic back issues occasionally contributing to digestive slowdown. Addressing constipation through hydration, movement, and dietary adjustments is usually sufficient for relief and protection against future episodes. For many, adding green kiwifruit to your daily routine offers a scientifically proven, natural way to support regularity and digestive comfort, all while nurturing your whole-body health.​

If you are struggling to find relief, or notice severe symptoms, always consult a healthcare professional. Natural support, from lifestyle changes to gut-friendly fruits like green kiwifruit, is a first-line choice for mild to moderate constipation, with research showing it can help you feel better from the inside out.