Lower left back sharp pain after wearing a new belt

Dear Ask The Doctor: I developed a sharp back pain yesterday. It is in my lower back, exactly under my belt line on the left side. It feels like a bruise but there is no mark, and I haven't bumped into anything. i first thought it might have been the new belt I was wearing and after a long drive it had irritated my back. i still have the pain today (wearing old belt) and it seems quite tender. I did some research and wondered if this could be kidney related - but it seems too low for that. Any ideas?

Dear Wendell: Your description may correspond to Neuralgia; this is a sharp pain that follows the area or path supplied by the affected nerve, due to irritation or damage, possibly because the new belt was to stiff or tight. You are having increased sensitivity of the skin along the path or area of the affected nerve, then any touch or pressure is felt as pain. The goal of the treatment is to reverse or control the cause of the nerve problem (if found), and provide pain relief. Treatment varies depending on the cause, location, and severity of the pain, and other factors. Even if the cause of the neuralgia is never found, the condition may improve on its own or disappear with time. In the meantime, moist heat can be applied locally, taking anti-inflammatory medication (i.e.: “Aleve”)  and Vitamin B 12 supplement may help too; avoid using constrictive garments near to the affected area and  try to avoid activities that worsen the pain.