Your kidneys are located in your abdomen, specifically just below your ribcage, on each side of your spine.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of their location:
- Position: They sit in the retroperitoneal space, which means they are behind the abdominal lining (peritoneum).
- Level: Approximately between the T12 and L3 vertebrae (the last thoracic and first three lumbar vertebrae).
- Protection: Partially protected by the lower ribs.
- Symmetry: One kidney on each side of your body.
Understanding kidney location is important because pain in the flank area (between your ribs and hip) might indicate a kidney issue. According to the reference, it is important to note that "kidney pain doesn't always mean there's a problem with your kidneys specifically — but it does usually indicate an issue somewhere in your urinary system."
