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Kidney Stone Pain Relief Position: What Should I Expect?
Updated on
- Written by Dr. Stephanie Nichols, MD
Medically reviewed by
Brittany Ferri, Ph.D.
Kidney stones can cause intense pain and discomfort, but there are various strategies to alleviate symptoms and promote relief. In this article, we explore effective yoga poses and sleeping positions that can provide kidney stone pain relief. Discover how poses like the Cobra Pose, Bow Pose, and Seated Forward Bend stretch and stimulate the abdominal area, promoting urine flow and reducing inflammation.
Additionally, learn about the elevated torso and side sleeping positions, which can help alleviate pressure on the kidneys and improve blood circulation for a more comfortable sleep. While these techniques can be helpful, it’s important to know when to consult a healthcare professional.
We outline key symptoms, such as severe pain, blood in the urine, and difficulty urinating, that warrant medical attention. By understanding these strategies and seeking appropriate care, you can effectively manage kidney stone pain and support your overall well-being. Keep reading to find out more!
5 Kidney Stone Pain Relief Positions
When experiencing kidney stone pain, finding relief is essential for comfort and well-being. By incorporating these positions into your routine, you can find relief and support the natural process of kidney stone elimination, while also seeking professional medical advice for personalized care.
- Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
- Bow Pose (Dhanurasana)
- Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
- Elevated Torso Position
- Side Position With A Pillow
Kidney Stone Pain Relief Positions
Yoga Positions
Cobra Pose
The Cobra Pose, also known as Bhujangasana, is a beneficial yoga posture that can provide relief from kidney stone pain. By lying on your stomach, placing your palms on the floor, and lifting your upper body while keeping your legs straight, the Cobra Pose stretches the abdominal muscles, stimulates the kidneys, and improves blood circulation in the area. This gentle backbend can help alleviate the discomfort caused by kidney stones by promoting the flow of urine and reducing inflammation.
Bow Pose
The Bow Pose, also known as Dhanurasana, is a powerful yoga posture that can provide relief from kidney stone pain. By lying on your stomach, bending your knees, and reaching back to grasp your ankles, the Bow Pose stretches the abdominal area, stimulates the kidneys, and increases blood flow to the kidneys and urinary system. This pose helps in promoting the flow of urine and breaking down kidney stones. The deep stretch and compression of the abdomen in the Bow Pose can help alleviate discomfort and support the natural elimination of kidney stones.
Seated Forward Bend
The Seated Forward Bend, or Paschimottanasana, is a beneficial yoga pose that can provide relief from kidney stone pain. By sitting with legs extended forward and folding forward from the hips, this pose gently stretches the back muscles and stimulates the abdominal organs, including the kidneys. The forward bend compresses the abdominal area, promoting blood flow to the kidneys and urinary system, which can aid in breaking down kidney stones and reducing discomfort. Regular practice of Paschimottanasana, along with medical treatment, can help alleviate kidney stone pain, improve kidney function, and support overall kidney health.
Sleeping Positions
Elevated Torso Position
The elevated torso sleeping position can be beneficial for kidney stone pain relief. By propping up your torso with pillows or using an adjustable bed, you can reduce pressure on the kidneys and promote improved urine flow. This position helps prevent fluid build-up and reduces the likelihood of kidney stone-related discomfort. Elevating the torso also aids in reducing inflammation and swelling around the kidneys, allowing for better blood circulation in the area. This sleeping position can provide relief and help alleviate the intensity of kidney stone pain, allowing for a more comfortable and restful sleep.
Side Position With A Pillow
The Side position with a pillow is a favorable sleeping position for kidney stone pain relief. When you sleep on your side with a pillow placed between your knees, it promotes proper spinal alignment and reduces pressure on the kidneys. This position helps alleviate discomfort caused by kidney stones by allowing the body to maintain a more neutral posture throughout the night. By reducing strain on the kidneys, it supports better blood circulation and encourages improved urine flow, potentially aiding in the natural elimination of kidney stones. Furthermore, the side position helps prevent fluid retention around the kidneys, reducing inflammation and minimizing the risk of additional pain.
Sleeping on your side also has the added benefit of reducing the likelihood of kidney stone movement during sleep. When lying on your back, gravity can potentially encourage stones to shift, causing increased pain. The side position minimizes this risk by providing support and stability to the kidneys.
It’s worth noting that finding the right pillow thickness and firmness between your knees is crucial for maximum comfort and effectiveness. This position can be especially beneficial for those who prefer or are accustomed to side sleeping. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, as they can provide specific recommendations based on your individual condition and needs.
Safety Tips & Precautions
When dealing with kidney stones, it’s important to take certain safety tips and precautions to manage the condition effectively. To find out how to get rid of kidney stones you already have, check out this article! Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration[1] is crucial for preventing the formation of kidney stones. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to promote urine production and maintain proper kidney function. Find out how much water you should drink per day to avoid kidney stones here!
Follow A Balanced Diet
Opt for a balanced diet[2] rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting the intake of salt, sugar, and processed foods.
Moderate Protein Intake
Excessive protein[3] consumption can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Maintain a moderate intake of protein and avoid excessively high-protein diets.
Limit Sodium Intake
High sodium levels[4] can contribute to developing kidney stones. Reduce your sodium intake by avoiding processed foods, canned soups, and fast food, and instead opt for fresh, low-sodium alternatives.
Limit Oxalate-Rich Foods
If you have calcium oxalate[5] stones, limit consumption of foods high in oxalates such as spinach, rhubarb, beets, and nuts, which can make kidney stones form. However, it’s important to discuss dietary modifications with a healthcare professional.
Avoid Excessive Caffeine And Alcohol
Caffeine[6] and alcohol[7] can contribute to dehydration, which may worsen kidney stone symptoms. Limit your consumption of these substances.
Remember, these tips are general guidelines, and it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your specific situation. Supplements can also be helpful for getting rid of kidney stones, check out apple cider vinegar for kidney stones and the best apple cider vinegar gummies now!
When To See A Doctor
You should seek out a doctor for kidney stones under certain circumstances. You should seek medical attention if you experience severe pain in the abdomen or back, blood in the urine, persistent urinary tract infections, difficulty urinating, or if the pain is accompanied by fever and chills.
Additionally, if you have a history of kidney stones, even small stones, or have been diagnosed with them before, it is advisable to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and management.
Sometimes larger stones cannot pass through the urinary system without medical intervention or surgical removal. A healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis, recommend appropriate treatment options, and offer guidance on lifestyle modifications to prevent future occurrences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, kidney stone pain relief can be achieved through various strategies, including specific yoga poses and sleeping positions. The Cobra Pose, Bow Pose, and Seated Forward Bend are yoga postures that stretch and stimulate the abdominal area, promoting urine flow and reducing inflammation. The elevated torso sleeping position, achieved by propping up the torso with pillows or using an adjustable bed, can reduce pressure on the kidneys and improve urine flow. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees promotes proper spinal alignment, reduces pressure on the kidneys, and minimizes the risk of kidney stone movement.
However, it is important to remember that these techniques should be used in conjunction with medical treatment and personalized advice from healthcare professionals. Additionally, staying hydrated, following a balanced diet, and knowing when to seek medical attention are important aspects of managing kidney stones effectively. Supplements can also be useful for kidney stones, read about the Goli Gummies review here. By incorporating these strategies, you can find relief from kidney stone pain and support your overall kidney health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana), Bow Pose (Dhanurasana), and Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana).
Elevated Torso Position and Side Position With A Pillow.
You should seek medical attention if you experience severe pain in the abdomen or back, blood in the urine, persistent urinary tract infections, difficulty urinating, or if the pain is accompanied by fever and chills.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting the intake of salt, sugar, and processed foods.
+ 7 sources
Health Canal avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in Health Canal, you can read more about the editorial process here
- Jie Sian Wang, Chiang, H.-Y., Chen, H., Flores, M., Navas-Acien, A. and Kuo, C.-C. (2022). Association of water intake and hydration status with risk of kidney stone formation based on NHANES 2009–2012 cycles. [online] 25(9), pp.2403–2414. doi:https://doi.org/10.1017/s1368980022001033.
- Ferraro, P., Matteo Bargagli, Trinchieri, A. and Gambaro, G. (2020). Risk of Kidney Stones: Influence of Dietary Factors, Dietary Patterns, and Vegetarian–Vegan Diets. [online] 12(3), pp.779–779. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12030779.
- Moe, O.W. (2006). Kidney stones: pathophysiology and medical management. [online] 367(9507), pp.333–344. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(06)68071-9.
- Taylor, E., Fung, T.T. and Curhan, G.C. (2009). DASH-Style Diet Associates with Reduced Risk for Kidney Stones. [online] 20(10), pp.2253–2259. doi:https://doi.org/10.1681/asn.2009030276.
- https://xn--article-7z6c.imrpress.com/bri/Landmark/articles/pdf/Landmark1082.pdf
- Ferraro, P., Taylor, E., Gambaro, G. and Curhan, G.C. (2014). Caffeine intake and the risk of kidney stones,,. [online] 100(6), pp.1596–1603. doi:https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.114.089987.
- Journal of Endourology. (2021). Do Lifestyle Factors Including Smoking, Alcohol, and Exercise Impact Your Risk of Developing Kidney Stone Disease? Outcomes of a Systematic Review | Journal of Endourology. [online] Available at: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/end.2020.0378.
Written by:
Dr. Stephanie Nichols, MD
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
