I have a history of masturbation and recently often experience soreness in my lower back. Could this be kidney deficiency?

Nov 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, whether frequent lower back pain and a history of masturbation indicate kidney deficiency should be determined based on specific symptoms, overall physical condition, and medical examination results. In any case, it is recommended to first visit a hospital for tests such as urinalysis, kidney function assessment, and lumbar spine imaging to rule out organic conditions such as kidney stones, nephritis, or herniated discs; also, avoid prolonged sitting in daily life.

Generally speaking, whether a person with a history of masturbation and recent frequent lower back soreness has kidney deficiency needs to be comprehensively evaluated based on specific symptoms, overall physical condition, and medical examination results. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If masturbation frequency is moderate and the only symptom is lower back soreness—without typical signs of kidney deficiency such as frequent nocturia, cold intolerance, tinnitus, or hair loss—and if the soreness improves with rest, the tongue appears pale red with thin coating, pulse is normal, and laboratory and imaging tests show no abnormalities, the cause is likely muscular strain or poor circulation due to prolonged sitting. In such cases, it should not be immediately diagnosed as kidney deficiency; adjusting daily routines and strengthening back and waist exercises are usually sufficient for improvement.

If excessive masturbation is accompanied by clear and prolonged nocturia, reduced morning erections, cold intolerance, fatigue, pale and swollen tongue with tooth marks, deep and weak pulse, noticeable lower back soreness upon waking that worsens with exertion, lab tests showing low testosterone and decreased urine specific gravity, and imaging revealing no significant lumbar spine abnormalities, deficiency of kidney yang is highly probable. This requires TCM syndrome differentiation followed by treatments to warm and tonify kidney yang, along with lifestyle adjustments such as moderation in sexual activity, earlier bedtime, and moxibustion at Mingmen (GV4) and Guanyuan (CV4) acupoints.

In any case, it is recommended to first visit a hospital for tests including urinalysis, renal function assessment, and lumbar imaging to rule out organic conditions such as kidney stones, nephritis, or herniated discs. Daily habits should include avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, lifting heavy objects with bent waist, sleeping on a firm mattress, and performing exercises like "flying swallow" and "bridge pose" to strengthen back muscles. Keep the lower back warm, avoid staying up late, and reduce intake of spicy or cold foods. Masturbation should be limited to a level that does not cause fatigue the next day. If soreness persists after two weeks of adjustment, seek medical review promptly.