Back pain

[Patrym]

I donated my kidney to my son about 4 weeks ago. I do not fell good still. My question is , has any of you had a terrible back pain? My starts on the left side hip (which my kidney was taken) and goes to the right hip and to the middle of my back. The doctor is saying that happens to donors but I am concerned. Most people that donated seem to get better fast. I am going to the chiropractor to see if that helps.

[KarenHope]

I would never, ever, ever go to a chiropractor after surgery. In fact, the suggestion of it gives me a hint as to how it comes to be you are having a problem - forgive me, that's my reaction. It shocks me. After surgery is a time to keep your body quiet rather than have it moved about by somebody else. That you would consider doing that suggests to me that you are doing other things you could be better off refraining from doing.

[DSKdonor NKF Ambassador]

I donated my left kidney over 12 years ago. I do remember having pain not directly related to the incision, and I was told most of my pain was gas-related. You feel the pain in other areas - it's called Referred Pain. I was told to move about as much as I could (on my own), meaning walking, not sitting for long, and walking some more. I also had a little pain, called Ghost Pain from where the kidney was removed and the nerve endings "react" a bit. None of my pain was severe, but was certainly more than annoying.

I'd try hot compresses, I'd try cold compresses and see if either makes you feel better.

Before going to a chiropractor, I'd go back to your surgeon to make sure nothing else is happening inside!!

[EchoMax1012]

I am very sorry. Everyone's story is different, and yours, although not common, is real enough to you, and it sounds like it was unexpected. I would consult another MD, personally, and get a second opinion--the MD you talked to seems to have discounted your symptoms--if he was the surgeon or in the donor program, maybe there is a bit of CYA going on....Anyhow, good luck with your recovery process, and post here with how things are going!!!

[PeaceToall]

Im considering being a living donor but I wouldn’t want back pain. I already have shoulder pain. Am I being selfish?