Many conditions can cause pain in the side. According to Medline Plus, side or flank pain is pain that manifests in the torso between the upper abdomen and the back. Flank pain usually occurs between the lower ribs and the ilia or hips bones, and it can sometimes involve these structures, too. Side pain can be mild, moderate or severe, depending on the cause of the condition and the tissues involved.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can cause pain in the side. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, kidney stones -- small stones made of minerals and acid salts -- are one of the most painful conditions of the urinary tract. The number of Americans who develop kidney stones has increased in the last 30 years. When a person develops more than one stone, other stones are likely to manifest. Common signs and symptoms associated with kidney stones include severe back, flank and groin pain, pain when urinating, blood in the urine, nausea and vomiting and the persistent urge to urinate. If an infection is present, a person with kidney stones may also experience fever and chills. Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood for kidney stones, such as being male, dehydration, obesity and family history of kidney stones.
Herpes Zoster
Herpes zoster can cause flank pain. Medline Plus states that herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a painful, blistering skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The varicella-zoster virus is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Although shingles can manifest in people of all ages, there's a greater likelihood it will develop in people over the age of 60, people who have had chickenpox before the age of 1 and people whose immune systems are compromised by health problems or certain medications. Common signs and symptoms associated with herpes zoster include one-sided pain, burning or tingling, a painful rash on the back, side and front of the body, abdominal pain, chills, headache, hearing and vision problems and joint pain. According to Medline Plus, herpes zoster often self-resolves within two to three weeks.
Pelvic Fractures
Pelvic fractures can cause side pain. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the pelvis -- a ring-like structure of bones at the base of the trunk -- protects numerous digestive and reproductive organs, nerves and blood vessels. The pelvis also provides attachment points for muscles in the torso and upper legs. Because of the number of structures in and around the pelvis, a fracture or break of the bones in this part of the body can cause severe bleeding, nerve injuries or organ damage. The most common cause of pelvic fractures are high-force injuries, such as a motor vehicle accident of a fall from a great height. Common signs and symptoms associated with pelvic fractures include severe pelvis and side pain, swelling and bruising in the affected area and reduced hip active range of motion. Because pelvic fractures are often caused by high-force accidents, other injuries may also be present, including head, chest and abdomen injuries.
