Can gas cause both back and stomach pain?

Yes. Trapped gas in the colon can cause distension that refers pain to the lower back. This is especially common in IBS and after eating gas-producing foods.

Back Pain and Stomach Pain Together: What Causes Both?

Important Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

Overview

When back pain and abdominal pain occur simultaneously, it often suggests a condition affecting an organ that sits deep in the abdomen and refers pain to the back. Kidneys, pancreas, and the abdominal aorta are common sources.

Possible Causes

Kidney Stones

common

Stones moving through the ureter cause severe flank pain that wraps around to the lower abdomen, often with nausea.

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Pancreatitis

less-common

Inflammation of the pancreas produces upper abdominal pain that radiates through to the back, worsened by eating.

Peptic Ulcer

less-common

Deep ulcers, especially posterior duodenal ulcers, can cause pain felt in both the abdomen and mid-back.

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Muscle Strain

common

Core and back muscle strain from lifting can produce both front and back torso pain simultaneously.

When It Is Serious

Severe, sudden pain especially with fever, vomiting, or blood in urine may indicate kidney stones, pancreatitis, or abdominal aortic aneurysm — seek emergency care.

When It's Likely Benign

Gradual onset related to heavy lifting, poor posture, or known IBS is likely musculoskeletal or functional.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Back Pain Guide Stomach Pain Guide

Medically Reviewed for Accuracy

Medical Advisory Board

•Last reviewed: March 20, 2026

Content is aligned with established clinical guidelines from authoritative medical institutions, including MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine), the CDC, the NIH, and the NHS. All content is reviewed by our medical advisory board for accuracy and safety.