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I had nephrotic syndrome. Is knee and waist pain related to it?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I started having severe pain on the right side of my waist at night. Shortly after, I began feeling pain in one knee, making it painful to stand up or sit down.

The pain on the side of my stomach is now mild, and while the knee pain has lessened, I am now feeling mild pain in both knees.

I had nephrotic syndrome when I was 14 years old, but it has not recurred since then. I am now 44.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Ashraf Ghani

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I can understand how concerning it must be to suddenly experience pain in your waist and knees, especially when you have been healthy for so many years.

The pattern you describe, pain on the right side of your waist that later spread to the knees, now affecting both sides, could have several possible explanations.

Sometimes, pain around the waist or hip area can radiate downward due to muscle strain,

spinal or nerve irritation (such as from the lower back or hip joint), or even early arthritis in the hip or knees.

Given your weight, some of this discomfort could also be related to joint strain, which places extra pressure on the knees and hip joints during movement, especially when standing or sitting.

Your history of nephrotic syndrome many years ago is unlikely to be directly related, since it has been in remission for decades. However, it is still a good idea to get a urine and kidney function test done to be safe, especially when there’s flank or side discomfort.

Since your pain has improved but not fully resolved, I recommend that you have your doctor evaluate your joints and spine, and possibly perform simple blood tests (such as a kidney profile, uric acid, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), and vitamin D levels), as well as a knee X-ray if needed.

Gentle stretching, low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling, and gradual weight reduction can make a big difference in relieving pressure on your knees and waist.

For now, avoid sudden bending, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting.

If pain worsens or swelling appears, seek medical attention promptly.

You have done well maintaining your health, and with the right evaluation and care, this issue can likely be managed effectively and prevent further discomfort.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At January 13, 2026
Reviewed At January 13, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Companion

Nephrotic Syndrome Pain Companion

How it works

Experiencing new pain can be concerning, especially with a past medical history. Here's a breakdown of potential causes and initial considerations for your knee and waist pain.

1

Pain
Symptoms

2

Possible
Causes

3

Nephrotic
Syndrome

4

Initial
Tests

5

Further
Evaluation

6

Lifestyle
Adjustments

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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