Lower Back Stiffnessaccording to TCM

What is Lower Back Stiffness?

Lower back stiffness is a common condition characterized by reduced flexibility and discomfort in the lower back area. It can arise from muscular tension, prolonged sitting, or spinal issues, affecting those with sedentary lifestyles or demanding physical occupations.

How does TCM view Lower Back Stiffness?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), lower back stiffness is seen as a result of imbalances in Qi (vital energy) flow and Blood circulation. Factors like environmental conditions, emotional stress, and internal organ imbalances are considered contributors. TCM aims to restore balance and ensure smooth Qi flow to alleviate stiffness.

Causes of Lower Back Stiffness according to TCM

TCM identifies Kidney Yang Deficiency and Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency as common causes of lower back stiffness. These Deficiencies lead to Cold and Damp accumulation or insufficient nourishment of back muscles, respectively. Treatment focuses on correcting these imbalances through herbs, acupuncture, and lifestyle changes.

Acupoints for Lower Back Stiffness

Acupuncture points such as Chengshan BL-57 and Dachangshu BL-25 on the Bladder Channel, and Yaoshu DU-2 on the Governing Vessel, are used for lower back stiffness. These points help in removing channel obstructions, strengthening the back, and improving Qi flow, targeting the root causes of stiffness as per TCM.

Explore below some acupoints used to address lower back stiffness, organized by meridian.

Qihaishu BL-24

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd lumber vertebra (L3).

Dachangshu BL-25

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 4th lumber vertebra (L4).

Guanyuanshu BL-26

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 5th lumber vertebra (L5).

Pangguangshu BL-28

At the level of the 2nd posterior sacral foramen, 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline, in the depression between the medial border of the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and the sacrum.

Weizhong BL-40

At the midpoint of the popliteal crease, between the tendons of biceps femoris and semitendinosus muscle.

Chengshan BL-57

Directly below the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle and between the two heads of the muscle, on the line connecting Weizhong BL-40 and Kunlun BL-60, about 8 cun below Weizhong BL-40.

Fuyang BL-59

On the lateral aspect of the lower leg, 3 cun above Kunlun BL-60.

Yaoshu DU-2

In the hiatus of the sacrum.

TCM Herbs for Lower Back Stiffness

Herbs like Cibot Rhizomes (Gou Ji) target Kidney Yang Deficiency, warming and strengthening the lower back. Sweetgum Fruits (Lu Lu Tong) are used for Blood and Qi Stagnation, addressing pain and stiffness. These herbs are selected based on individual TCM diagnoses.