Can spinal problems cause pain in sides and mid abdominal area?

Referred back pain: Back pain from strained muscles can be referred around to the sides or the abdomen. If you have a sore back, you might move a little differently, and strain your other muscles. Best treatment is rest, ibuprofen for a couple days (600 mg every 6 hrs), and maybe a heating pad for 20 min at a time. Gentle stretches when you're ready. Physical Therapy for more chronic pain.