What are some ways bowel problems can exacerbate back pain?

Bowel problems, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Crohn's Disease, can exacerbate back pain when the ulcerative colitis develops forms of arthritis, leading to inflammation of the spine, explains University of Washington's Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. The resulting back pain ranges from being fairly mild to seriously disabling.

The bottom of the back experiences pain when the sacroiliac joints are inflamed as a result of hard bowels or constipation that causes strain, according to University of Washington's Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. The back becomes stiff and rigid as a result. Treatment revolves around treating the underlying condition of the bowel symptoms and is focused on reducing pain.