Question:
Does excess skin cause lower to upper back pain even in kiddney area?

For over a month back back has really hurt. Sitting or standing any position hurts. 2 weeks ago I went to my PCP and was told that I had a kiddney infection. I took med. for that. My back still bothers me, should I go back to my PCP and have this documented. I have no rashes! I went from 297 to 150. I have plenty of excess skin but it doesn't hang to the pubic area. Will all this back pain help get covered for PS. Thanks in advance for all your answers.    — LeeAnn W. (posted on June 13, 2004)

June 13, 2004
I have had a couple of kidney infections. Even after taking all of the antibiotics, my kidneys were still tender and sore. My back would hurt off and on for another 3-4 weeks. Be sure you have your doctor check to see that the infection is all gone. Kidney infections are serious business. Also, your urinary tract is highly sensitive after an infection. I would have to drink only water for a week or 2 afterwards and stay away from all acidy foods, juices (except for cranberry juice), coffee, and carbonated beverages. Hope this helps and hope you feel better soon. I don't know about extra skin posing backaches. I've never heard of it.
   — Eileen D.

June 13, 2004
Yes, a large amount of excess skin is like wearing a 5-20lb weighted belt in the front. This can throw the lumbar spine into excess curvature and aggravate any other disc or back problems. It is a common symptom that can help with approval by INS, especially if it has been documented for some time. I know of no link between kidney probelms and the excess skin.
   — DrL

June 13, 2004
OH Yes, You're darn right it does! I had hip/back pain every night b4 my tummy tuck and now it is gone..especially the lower back/hip area. The doctor removed 8# of tissue and also did an abdominalplasty.
   — Carolyn G.

June 13, 2004
I documented my back pain and the insurance company approved me 6 days after receiving the PS predetremination letter. To document my back pain I went to a Physiatrist (orthopedic doctor but not a surgeon) twice and had 4 PT sessions. I took my medical necessary letters and the medical record from the Physiatrist and the PS sent all that with the predetermination letter. By the way my back pain is vertually gone. Good luck
   — bbjnay

June 14, 2004
I sent you a private email, but just wanted to add here that I would be willing to send anyone a copy of my appeal letter that got my abdominoplasty approved to relieve my back pain.
   — koogy