That dull ache in your lower back might not be your mattress. Constipation can cause back pain for some people, and NHS guidance notes that stomach ache or back pain alongside digestive discomfort may point to constipation rather than indigestion [1].
Constipation may cause a dull ache in the lower back, which tends to ease once the bowel empties. NHS guidance links back pain with constipation rather than indigestion [1]. Back pain with numbness in both legs, numbness around the genitals or anus, or bladder and bowel changes needs 999 or A&E [2].
Can constipation cause back pain, and what does it feel like?
The NHS describes constipation as not having had a poo at least three times in the last week, or going less often than usual, with poo that is dry, hard or lumpy, straining, or feeling you have not fully emptied your bowels [3]. See how often to poo and the Bristol Stool Chart.
When your bowel is full, discomfort does not always stay in your tummy; some people feel a dull pressure low in the back that eases after the loo. The NHS says back pain that is worse at night, does not ease with rest, or is worse when sneezing, coughing or pooing should be checked by a GP [2].
Can constipation cause nausea too?
It can. The NHS notes constipation may leave you with a stomach ache, bloated or sick [3]. If days pass with wind but no poo, our guide to no bowel movement for seven days explains when to act.
How to relieve lower back pain from constipation
Treat the constipation and the back usually follows. The NHS suggests gradually increasing fibre, drinking plenty of fluids, adding oats or linseed, and eating fruits containing sorbitol such as apples, apricots, grapes, raspberries and strawberries [3]. Keep a regular toilet time, do not delay when you feel the urge, and rest your feet on a low stool so your knees sit above your hips [3]. Here is more on the best position to poop.
A daily walk may help you poo more regularly [3]. If changes are not working, a pharmacist can suggest a short-term laxative; most work within three days [3]. See natural laxatives for food-first options.
Constipation back pain, or something else?
| What you notice | More likely linked to constipation | Get it checked |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Eases after a poo | Worse at night, or not easing with rest [2] |
| Other symptoms | Hard, infrequent poo and bloating [3] | Blood in poo or weight loss without trying [2][3] |
| Where it hurts | Lower back | Between the shoulders [2] |
When is back pain an emergency?
Call 999 or go to A&E if you have back pain and:
- pain, tingling, weakness or numbness in both legs
- a loss of feeling around your genitals or anus
- changes in your bladder or bowels, such as difficulty peeing, or peeing or pooing yourself
- chest pain, or it started after a serious accident
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or call 111 if:
- you feel hot, cold, shivery or generally unwell
- the pain is severe and started suddenly, or is getting worse quickly
See a GP if you have blood in your poo, have lost weight without trying, feel tired all the time, or your constipation is not improving. These lists follow NHS guidance [2][3].
Constipation and back pain questions, answered
Does back pain cause constipation, or the other way round?
It can work both ways. Back pain can make you move less, a common cause of constipation [3]. Some painkillers used for back pain also slow the bowel; constipation is one of the most common side effects of co-codamol [4]. If a medicine seems to be the cause, speak to your GP before stopping it [3].
How long does constipation back pain last?
If it is linked to constipation, it usually eases as things start moving again. The NHS says diet and lifestyle changes may make a difference within a few days, though sometimes it takes a few weeks [3]. Back pain that has not improved after a few weeks of looking after it at home should be checked by a GP [2].
Is a hot water bottle a good idea?
The NHS suggests a heat pack or hot water bottle wrapped in a tea towel for stiffness or muscle spasms [2]. It is a kind comfort while you treat the constipation. Our piece on constipation in midlife explains why things may slow with age.
If your back aches on days your bowels are slow, start with the basics: a glass of water, a fibre-rich breakfast, a short walk and an unhurried toilet routine. Then look for the pattern rather than judging one bad day. Gutsi, a gut health tracker, records your regularity and consistency passively, so you can see changes over time and take clearer information to your GP.
References
- NHS 111 Wales. Indigestion. 111.wales.nhs.uk/indigestion
- NHS. Back pain. Last reviewed 5 March 2026. nhs.uk/conditions/back-pain
- NHS. Constipation. Last reviewed 26 October 2023. nhs.uk/conditions/constipation
- NHS. About co-codamol for adults. nhs.uk
Gutsi provides lifestyle and wellness insights only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.
