Lower left abdominal stabbing pain
can be caused by a variety of conditions and can be a symptom of a serious underlying problem. Some of the most common causes of this type of pain include sports hernia, kidney stones, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, Appendicitis, Ileitis or Crohn’s disease, and ovarian cysts.
Sports Hernia
One cause of stabbing lower left abdominal pain is a sports hernia, which typically occurs due to repeated strain on the abdominal muscles. This condition can be caused by activities such as running, cycling, and weight-lifting. The pain associated with a sports hernia is often sharp and may come and go but typically worsens with movement. Treatment involves focusing on posture correction and strengthening the weakened abdominal muscles through physical therapy exercises. Surgery may be necessary if other methods have not helped alleviate symptoms.
Matterhorn Fit can help determine if surgery is necessary by identifying compensation patterns that are contributing to the symptoms. In this highly successful process they will “turn on” the supporting muscles to allow for force to be evenly distributed during movement. Learn more about what we treat and schedule your initial evaluation.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are solid, crystallized clusters of minerals that form when the levels of certain substances, such as uric acid or calcium, become too elevated in the kidneys. Depending on their size, kidney stones can cause a variety of symptoms, including stabbing lower left abdominal pain that may extend all the way to your back or side. In some cases, other symptoms such as urinary tract infection (UTI) and/or blood in your urine may be present. Treatment for kidney stones typically includes pain medications and drinking plenty of fluids. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove them.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is an inflammation of the diverticulum, the small pouch that extends out from the intestinal wall. This condition can be caused by a weakened abdominal wall or a blockage that can cause severe abdominal pain and cramping in the lower left abdomen. Some treatment methods for this condition include antibiotics and changes to your diet with fiber-rich foods. Surgery may also be necessary in more serious cases.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is another common cause of stabbing lower left abdominal pain. IBD is a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms of IBD include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. Treatment for IBD typically includes medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, as well as dietary changes.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a medical emergency in which the appendix becomes swollen and painful due to inflammation. It often causes sharp, stabbing lower right abdominal pain, increased temperature, nausea and vomiting, and difficulty passing stool or gas. If appendicitis is suspected, immediate medical attention is recommended to avoid serious complications. Treatment involves antibiotics and sometimes surgery to remove the appendix.
Ileitis or Crohn’s Disease
Ileitis or Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the ileum, which is the last part of the small intestine. It can lead to painful ulcers in the intestinal wall and may cause stabbing lower left abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue, and fever. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms with medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, or antibiotics. Surgery may be recommended if other treatments are not effective.
Ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are another possible cause of stabbing lower left abdominal pain. These are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. Ovarian cysts can cause pain and discomfort, and may also cause irregular periods or difficulty becoming pregnant. Treatment for ovarian cysts may include surgery to remove the cyst or medications to shrink or dissolve the cyst.
