In today’s modern lifestyle, many people spend most of their time sitting—whether working at a desk, driving, or relaxing. While Western medicine links prolonged sitting to spinal compression and muscle tension, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views it through a more holistic lens.
In TCM, prolonged sitting leads to stagnation of Qi and Blood, especially in the lower back and hips. It also weakens the Kidney organ system, which is essential for maintaining lower back strength and vitality. Over time, this condition may cause chronic pain, stiffness, and deeper energetic imbalances if left unaddressed.
Key Organ Systems Involved
1. Kidneys (Shen):
Govern the bones and lower back. Prolonged sitting weakens Kidney Qi and Yang, leading to fatigue and lower back pain.
2. Liver (Gan):
Regulates the smooth flow of Qi. Sitting too long causes Liver Qi stagnation, which can lead to muscle tightness and discomfort.
3. Spleen (Pi):
Supports Qi production and fluid metabolism. A sedentary lifestyle weakens the Spleen, contributing to Dampness accumulation in the lower body.
Common TCM Patterns for Sitting-Induced Back Pain
1. Qi and Blood Stagnation:
Dull, sharp, or achy pain due to blocked circulation. The pulse may feel wiry or choppy.
2. Kidney Deficiency (especially Yang):
Chronic, deep pain with a cold sensation and fatigue. Pulse feels deep and weak.
3. Liver Qi Stagnation:
Tension and pain that worsens with stress or emotional suppression. Pulse feels tight or wiry.
4. Damp Accumulation in the Lower Jiao (lower body):
Heaviness or fatigue in the lower back, worse with sitting or damp weather.
Treatment Principles in TCM
- Promote Qi and Blood circulation
- Strengthen Kidney and Spleen energy
- Release Liver Qi stagnation
- Eliminate Dampness from the lower back and hips
Diet and Lifestyle Tips (TCM-Based)
Recommended:
- Warm, nourishing foods: soups, stews, cooked vegetables, brown rice, ginger, goji berries
- Take regular movement breaks every hour: stand, walk, or stretch
- Gentle exercises: Tai Chi, Qigong
- Keep your lower back warm—avoid sitting on cold surfaces
Avoid:
- Raw or cold foods and drinks
- Sitting for long periods without breaks
- Staying up too late and insufficient rest
Daily Acupressure for Sedentary Back Pain
1.BL23 (Shenshu)
- Location : 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the L2 vertebra.
- Function : Strengthens Kidney energy and warms the lower back.
2.BL40 (Weizhong)
- Location : Center of the back of the knee.
- Function: Eases lower back pain and improves meridian flow.
3.GB30 (Huantiao)
- Location : Side of the buttocks near the hip joint.
- Function : Relieves tension in the hips and glutes.
TCM Treatment Recommendation
- Acupuncture: Points such as BL23, BL40, GB30, and DU3 help improve circulation and support the Kidneys.
- Cupping therapy: Helps release Qi stagnation and tight muscles.
- Moxibustion: Warms meridians and strengthens Yang energy.
Conclusion
Sitting for long hours might seem harmless, but in TCM it’s a major cause of lower back imbalance and energy stagnation. By understanding its impact and applying TCM-based care—like acupuncture, gentle movement, and lifestyle awareness—you can restore balance from within.
Sources
- Maciocia, G. The Practice of Chinese Medicine: The Treatment of Diseases with Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs. Elsevier, 2nd Edition.
- Deadman, P., Al-Khafaji, M., & Baker, K. A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
- World Health Organization (WHO). Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials, 2003.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). https://www.nccih.nih.gov
- Chen, J., & Wang, Y. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. Art of Medicine Press, 2004.
- Zhao, L., et al. “Effect of acupuncture on chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial.” Spine, 2017.
