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Can a Colon Tumor Cause Back Pain?

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.

  1. 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.

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