exercise leads to a weakening of the spine ligaments and joints and therefore predisposes the
person to disc problems especially when combined with a poor posture. Thus, although patients
should avoid lifting heavy weights and performing excessive exercises (such as aerobic
exercises), they should be advised to perform sensible, regular exercises to strengthen the back
and keep the muscles and ligaments supple. Tai Ji Chuan is an excellent form of exercise which
strengthens the Kidneys, keeps the muscles and sinews supple and calms the Mind.

Pathology

The three most common pathological conditions are retention of Cold and Dampness, stagnation
of Qi and Blood from sprain, and Kidney deficiency.

Retention of Damp-Cold

Damp-Cold can cause both acute and chronic backache. The pain is worse in the morning and
better with light exercise. The pain is also relieved by application of heat and is worse when the
weather is cold and damp.

In retention of Damp-Cold there may a prevalence of Cold or Dampness. When Cold
predominates there may be stiffness and contraction of the back muscles and the pain is more
severe, is aggravated by rest and improved by movement. It also responds to application of heat,
such as a hot-water bottle. When Dampness predominates there may be swelling, numbness and
a feeling of heaviness.

When caused by Cold and Dampness, lower backache is a form of Painful Obstruction
Syndrome (see Chapter 23).

Stagnation of Qi and Blood

Stagnation of Qi and Blood is characterized by a severe, stabbing pain which becomes worse
with rest and better with light exercise although it would be worse with overexertion. It is tender
to touch, does not respond to changes in weather and is much worse standing or sitting. It is also
unaffected by the application of heat. There is also marked rigidity and stiffness of the back
muscles and inability to flex, extend or turn the waist. Stagnation of Qi and Blood in the back in
an acute case is due to sprain. In chronic cases, repeated sprain causes recurrent attacks of
backache, especially if there is a background of Kidney deficiency.

Kidney Deficiency

Kidney deficiency causes chronic backache. The pain is dull and comes in bouts. It is definitely
better with rest and worse when the person gets overtired. It is also aggravated by sexual