Most women often suffer from abdominal pain, bloating, and headaches when they menstruate. In addition to these typical symptoms, some women also suffer from back pain. This back pain can range from a subtle annoyance to debilitating pain during those days of the month. Most women experience low back pain on the center of their back, usually beginning a few days before a menstrual cycle and usually subsiding after. For the most part, low back pain during menstruation is not severe and will subside.
In order to cope with and manage this type of pain, it is essential to understand why it occurs and how to manage it during your menstrual cycle.
WHAT CAUSES LOW BACK PAIN DURING MENSTRUATION?
Pain in the lower back during menstruation can be muscular, and pain can radiate from the lower abdomen into the low back. This pain is caused by hormones, e.g., prostaglandins (released during a menstrual cycle to promote uterine contractions and shed the uterine lining). An excess of prostaglandins can cause dysmenorrheal menstruation.
Women with endometriosis may also experience low back pain during the menstrual cycle. If this is of concern, you may want to talk to your doctor about this diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
TIPS TO REDUCE PAINFUL CRAMPING AND LOW BACK PAIN:
- Several days before menstruation, some women benefit from over-the-counter painkillers or anti-inflammatories, such as acetaminophen or naproxen.
- Exercise regularly. Studies show that women who exercise regularly have less painful menstrual cramps and low back pain.
- Maintain a healthy diet and take nutritional supplements with vitamin B and magnesium
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Apply heat or take warm baths.
- Avoid caffeine and chocolate.
- Avoid alcohol intake and smoking.
- Some women may require birth control pills to help with menstrual pain.
If your low back pain persists beyond the menstrual cycle, or if you experience leg pain or weakness, you should seek medical treatment since it may be more than the typical low back pain caused by prostaglandin release.
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We are physiotherapists passionate about movement and rehabilitation, with a clear goal: helping people better understand their pain and return to an active, unrestricted life.
Through our practice and content, we share practical, science-based approaches to prevent injuries, relieve pain, and sustainably improve mobility. We believe that well-informed patients make better decisions and achieve better outcomes.
Richard Bouzaglou, B.Sc. PT
Physiotherapist | Co-Founder
An experienced professional, Richard is the co-founder of the AMS Medical and Rehabilitation Center, where he has played a key role since 2008. With a background in sports medicine and physiotherapy, he has developed strong clinical expertise, particularly working with elite athletes.
His practice is based on a comprehensive approach that integrates advanced manual therapy, functional rehabilitation, and personalized care. Committed to continuous education and mentoring students, he is known for his clinical rigor and his ability to build lasting, trust-based relationships with his patients.
Moshe Vazana
Physiotherapist
With over 15 years of experience, Moshe is recognized for his precise, evidence-based approach. A physiotherapy graduate with advanced training in several methodologies, including the McKenzie Method (MDT) and the Mulligan Concept, he specializes in treating musculoskeletal and spinal conditions.
His international background and commitment to excellence enable him to provide care that is tailored, effective, and sustainable. Passionate about knowledge sharing, he is also actively involved in training the next generation of physiotherapy professionals.
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