Kidney pain vs back pain can feel similar, but kidney pain is usually felt on one side of the abdomen or lower back. It may also be accompanied by tenderness in the area, along with other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, or reddish urine, depending on the cause.
When kidney stones are the cause, the pain often starts suddenly and may feel like a strong cramp or intense pressure that changes in intensity. This type of kidney pain may also spread to the groin and genital area.
Back pain caused by muscle strain is usually different. It is often linked to physical activity or injury and tends to improve with rest.
Still, the only way to know the exact cause of the pain is to see a healthcare provider for a detailed evaluation.