Can a Colon Tumor Cause Back Pain?

Back pain from a tumor doesn't disappear with traditional treatments for sore backs.

Tumors in the colon don't have to be cancerous to be dangerous and cause lower back pain. Cancerous tumors, however, may cause back pain for a different reason than non-cancerous colon tumors. Both create dangerous medical situations that require attention.

Types

Tumors in the colon may be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). Both slow the movement of waste material by forming a narrower passage in the colon.

Benign

Benign tumors in the colon may cause back pain if they grow large enough to block bowel movement. The same is true for malignant tumors.

Severe Blockage

Back pain occurs when the mass of accumulated waste grows large enough to press on other organs and areas, including the abdomen and lower back.

Malignant Tumors

Colon cancer can spread (metastasize) to other areas. If the tumor is cancerous, there is a potential for the cancer to spread the spine. This causes back pain.

Significance

Occasionally, the only symptom people with advanced colon cancer have is back pain. Watch the MSNBC video listed in the reference area.

Prevention/Solution

Elimination of the cause is the only way to eliminate back pain. Removal of the tumor or treatment for the cancer is the best method to resolve issues with colon tumor related back pain.

References

• Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
• MSNBC:Trying to heal from the tragedy of colon cancer
• What is colorectal cancer?

Resources

• Back Pain-Constipation