Introduction
For many new mothers, back pain after childbirth is an unwelcome reminder of the physical toll of pregnancy and delivery. While the baby becomes the centre of attention, the mother’s recovery often takes a quieter, slower path. Modern medicine typically attributes postpartum back pain to muscular strain, hormonal changes, and altered posture. However, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a deeper lens through which to view this discomfort.
In TCM philosophy, postpartum recovery is not just about easing physical pain but restoring balance within the body. The depletion of Qi (vital energy) and blood during childbirth, coupled with internal “cold” entering the body, can lead to weakness and soreness in the lower back. By recognising this Qi and blood deficiency after childbirth, mothers can better manage their recovery through balanced measures. These may include proper rest, nutritional support, and treatments like TCM acupuncture or herbal therapy.
Key Takeaways:
- What is postpartum back pain and why does it occur?
Postpartum back pain refers to stiffness or aching in the back that appears after childbirth. It often affects the lower back but may also extend to the upper or middle back. This discomfort can arise from hormonal changes, weakened muscles, or shifts in posture that occur during pregnancy and delivery. - How does TCM explain postpartum back pain?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the pain is linked to internal imbalances involving Qi, blood, and Kidney energy. The physical strain of childbirth is believed to deplete these vital substances, leading to poor circulation and tension in the lower back. - What TCM methods can help manage postpartum back pain?
Common approaches include acupuncture, herbal prescriptions, Tuina (therapeutic massage), and heat therapy. These methods are selected based on each individual’s condition and are intended to support circulation, balance energy flow, and ease muscular tension. - How does Kidney Qi relate to lower back pain in TCM?
The kidneys are thought to store essential energy known as Kidney Qi, which supports spinal and bone health. When this energy is weakened after pregnancy, it may contribute to lower back discomfort, fatigue, or weakness in the knees and legs. - Can lifestyle adjustments help with postpartum back pain?
Yes. Balanced rest, proper posture, gentle exercises, and nourishing meals are simple ways to complement treatment and encourage gradual recovery. These everyday habits, alongside TCM care, can help maintain energy balance and support long-term healing.
Overview of Postpartum Back Pain: Causes and Duration
What Is Postpartum Back Pain?
Postpartum back pain is a common part of the recovery journey after childbirth. While often presenting as stiffness or aching in the lower back, it may also extend to the upper back, midsection, or tailbone area. This discomfort can occur regardless of whether the delivery was natural or by caesarean section. The pain typically stems from the physical and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and labour, including stretched ligaments, weakened core muscles, and shifts in posture. Most mothers experience gradual relief as their bodies heal, but the pace and degree of recovery differ from person to person. Factors such as quality of rest, level of physical activity, and overall postpartum care can all influence the recovery progress.
What Causes It?
Understanding the causes of postpartum back pain helps explain why recovery can feel different for every mother. Beyond the natural healing process, several interconnected factors contribute to ongoing discomfort. Recognising these causes can help mothers manage symptoms more effectively and support the body’s gradual return to balance.
1. Physical Changes During Pregnancy and Birth
During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant structural adjustments to accommodate the growing baby. The abdominal muscles stretch and weaken, reducing their ability to support the spine and increasing strain on the lower back. Postural shifts, such as a forward-tilted pelvis and deepened lower back curve, often persist after delivery. Additionally, the physical exertion of labour or a caesarean section can leave muscles sore and tense. The pelvic floor, which stabilises the spine and pelvis, may also be weakened. Left untreated, it can result in back discomfort during recovery.
2. Hormonal Influences
Hormones play a part in preparing the body for childbirth, but their lingering effects can extend into the postpartum period. The hormone relaxin, which softens ligaments and joints to facilitate delivery, remains in the body for weeks after birth. This increased joint flexibility can lead to instability and make the back more vulnerable to strain. As hormonal levels take time to return to their pre-pregnancy state, it’s natural for some degree of discomfort to persist as the body gradually rebalances.
3. Lifestyle and Daily Demands
Caring for a newborn introduces new physical stresses that can intensify back pain. Repetitive bending, lifting, and holding the baby for long periods and in awkward positions are likely to place continuous pressure on the spine. Improperly fitted baby carriers can add to back strain, while unsupported feeding positions often lead to hunching that affects the neck and upper back. When combined with fatigue and limited rest, these daily routines may delay recovery and make it harder for muscles and joints to regain strength.
What You Need to Know About the Duration and Persistence of Pain
The duration of the pain can vary widely from one person to another. For many mothers, discomfort tends to ease within a few months as the body regains strength and hormonal levels stabilise. However, in some cases, pain may persist beyond the typical recovery period. Factors such as a history of back problems, early-onset pain during pregnancy, or excess body weight can increase the likelihood of prolonged symptoms.
If back pain remains severe or interferes with daily activities, it is important to seek medical advice rather than relying solely on self-care. A healthcare professional can identify underlying causes and recommend suitable treatment options, such as physiotherapy, posture correction, or targeted exercises. Early attention not only helps manage pain more effectively but also supports proper recovery.
Managing Postpartum Back Pain With TCM Approaches
How TCM Understands Postpartum Back Pain
TCM views postpartum back pain as a reflection of the body’s internal imbalance following childbirth. Rather than focusing solely on muscles and joints, TCM attributes the pain to imbalances in Qi, blood, and kidney energy, which are vital for the body’s stability and healing.
1. Qi and Blood Depletion
According to TCM principles, the process of childbirth uses a significant amount of Qi and blood. These elements are vital for sustaining the body’s energy and nourishment. When Qi and blood are depleted after childbirth, new mothers may feel physically weakened and more prone to lower back pain. This lack of adequate circulation can cause stagnation, resulting in stiffness, soreness, or a persistent dull ache.
2. Role of Kidney Qi
The kidneys are thought to store the body’s essential energy, known as Kidney Qi, which plays a central role in supporting the spine and lower back. When Kidney Qi becomes weakened after pregnancy, it can reduce stability in the lumbar region, leading to ongoing soreness or stiffness. In TCM, this relationship between Kidney Qi and lower back pain is a key consideration. The deficiency in this energy is often accompanied by fatigue, cold sensations, and weakened knees or lower limbs.
3. Importance of Balance
Recovery in the postpartum period requires a careful balance between rest and gentle activity. In TCM understanding, maintaining energy balance in postpartum healing is essential. This is because overexertion can deplete Qi and delay recovery, while excessive rest may slow energy flow and lead to stiffness. A combination of moderate movement, nourishing foods, and sufficient rest helps restore equilibrium and supports the body’s natural healing process.
How TCM Methods Can Manage Postpartum Back Pain
TCM offers several approaches to address postpartum back pain by encouraging circulation, promoting balance, and supporting the body’s natural recovery process. The choice of method depends on each individual’s condition and stage of recovery, with an emphasis on gentle and restorative techniques rather than strong stimulation.
1. Acupuncture
Common acupoints used for TCM back pain include:
- BL-23 (Shenshu, 肾俞) – Strengthens the lower back and supports Kidney Qi.
- BL-24 (Qihaishu, 气海俞) – Promotes energy flow and alleviates local stagnation.
- BL-25 (Dachangshu, 大肠俞) – Supports the lumbar region and lower back muscles.
- BL-26 (Guanyuanshu, 关元俞) – Relieves pain and supports postpartum recovery.
- BL-62 (Shenmai, 申脉) – Improves circulation along the Bladder Meridian.
- LIV-3 (Taichong, 太冲) and GB-34 (Yanglingquan, 阳陵泉) – Strengthen tendons and muscles, improving flexibility and mobility.
These points are typically chosen to address stagnation and deficiency patterns that contribute to postpartum back discomfort.
2. Herbal Medicine
Herbal prescriptions in TCM are tailored to replenish Qi, nourish blood, and support kidney function for postpartum recovery. Herbs are chosen according to the individual’s constitution, symptoms, and energy balance. Properly prescribed formulations can help restore strength and ease lingering soreness without overstimulating the body.
3. Tuina (Therapeutic Acupressure Massage)
4. Moxibustion and Heat Therapy
Applying warmth to selected meridian points through moxibustion or heat therapy is believed in TCM to support Qi flow and ease cold-related stagnation. This approach may be suitable for mothers experiencing dull or cold-type back pain, as it aims to encourage circulation and gentle recovery.
5. Diastasis Recti Repair
Postnatal back pain is often linked to weakened core muscles after pregnancy. Diastasis recti, the separation of the abdominal muscles, can weaken core stability. As it forces the lower back to overcompensate, those who are affected may feel discomfort. To manage this, diastasis recti repair focuses on:
- Rebuilding core support
- Reducing pressure on the lumbar spine
- Promoting proper posture
- Lessening chronic lower back discomfort
6. Pelvic Cavity Signature Therapy
After childbirth, pelvic alignment and surrounding muscles may become tight, weak, or imbalanced. This can pull on the lower back and cause pain. This therapy may help address the discomfort by:
- Realign the pelvis
- Improve circulation and muscle activation
- Release tension in the hip and lower-back region
What are Some Lifestyle Tips Inspired by TCM?
In addition to clinical treatments, daily habits play an important role in managing postpartum back discomfort. From a TCM perspective on women’s health, recovery after childbirth involves restoring internal balance and allowing the body to regain its natural strength gradually. Adopting mindful routines in rest, diet, posture, and movement can complement therapeutic care and support long-term wellbeing.
1. Rest and Energy Management
2. Diet and Nourishment
A balanced diet is another form of natural remedy for postnatal back pain. TCM encourages consuming warm, easily digestible foods that help replenish Qi and blood. Soups, stews, and ingredients rich in iron and protein can provide gentle nourishment. Avoiding cold or raw foods during the early recovery phase may also help maintain warmth and circulation in the body.
3. Posture and Body Mechanics
Proper posture and body mechanics can ease daily strain on the back. When sitting or feeding, use a supportive chair with armrests and additional pillows to cushion the back and arms. Besides, a breastfeeding pillow or footstool can also help maintain alignment and reduce tension.
Bringing the baby closer, rather than leaning forward, prevents unnecessary strain on the upper back and shoulders. When lifting, bend at the knees and avoid carrying the baby on one hip for extended periods. Whenever possible, ask for assistance with heavier tasks, particularly after a caesarean birth.
4. Gentle Exercise and Stretching
Once cleared by a healthcare provider, gentle exercises for new mothers may help improve flexibility and circulation without straining weakened muscles. Light stretching and other slow, guided movements should be performed gradually, focusing on restoring mobility and natural spinal alignment.
When to Seek TCM Advice
While mild postpartum back pain often improves as the body heals, some cases may require further attention. Knowing when to seek the right guidance can help ensure that discomfort does not interfere with recovery or daily life.
1. Persistent or Severe Pain
If back pain does not subside within a few months or progressively worsens, it may indicate an underlying issue that needs to be assessed. Severe pain that limits mobility, makes standing difficult, or disrupts caregiving tasks should be reviewed by a qualified practitioner. Early consultation helps identify potential causes and appropriate management.
2. Pain Interfering with Daily Activities or Sleep
When pain affects rest, sleep quality, or daily routines, it may benefit from targeted care. Persistent discomfort can make breastfeeding uncomfortable, reduce mobility, and impact mood or energy levels, slowing the overall recovery process. Discussing these symptoms with a TCM practitioner can help determine whether treatment or supportive adjustments are appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is postpartum back pain common after childbirth?
Yes. Many new mothers experience back pain due to physical strain during pregnancy and delivery, hormonal changes, and daily activities such as feeding and carrying the baby.
2. Is TCM safe for new mothers who are breastfeeding?
Certain TCM treatments can be adjusted for breastfeeding mothers. However, it is important to consult a qualified TCM physician and inform them about your breastfeeding status.
3. Are there dietary recommendations in TCM for easing postpartum back pain?
Yes. Warm, nourishing foods are often recommended to rebuild Qi and blood, which may support back recovery.
Here are some common examples:
(i) Soups
- Chicken and Goji Berry Soup – Nourishes Qi and Blood
- Black Bean and Pork Rib Soup – Supports kidney and back strength
- Dang Gui (Angelica Root) Herbal Soup – Helps replenish Blood
(ii) Whole Grains
- Brown rice, barley, millet, quinoa, oats
(iii) Lean Proteins
- Skinless chicken or turkey, fish such as salmon or cod, eggs
Conclusion
From a TCM perspective, postpartum back pain is understood as a reflection of the body’s internal imbalance involving Qi, blood, and Kidney energy. Managing lower back pain through TCM focuses on addressing underlying imbalances, maintaining circulation, and supporting the body’s gradual return to stability. The approach emphasises steady recovery through balanced rest, diet, and care, rather than focusing solely on temporary pain relief.
For those considering TCM as part of their postpartum care, Liang Yi provides consultations using therapies and techniques developed over time. Individuals may visit our Toa Payoh TCM clinic or other outlets for an assessment and to discuss suitable care approaches.
Contact us for more information.