During Ramadan, many people notice something unexpected after breaking their fast.
After iftar, the body finally relaxes — but instead of feeling better, some people experience lower back stiffness or pain.
You might notice:
π Back stiffness after sitting during iftar
π Discomfort while getting up from the floor
π Tightness after long conversations or gatherings
π Back pain during Tarawih prayer
π Difficulty standing straight after sitting
This is more common than many people realise.
Often, the real reason is prolonged sitting after fasting, combined with reduced movement during the day.
Let’s understand why this happens. π
After fasting all day, the body tends to slow down.
Many people spend long periods:
• Sitting during iftar meals
• Relaxing on sofas or floor seating
• Chatting with family for extended periods
• Watching television or using phones
When the body remains in one position too long, the lower back muscles and joints become stiff.
π The longer you sit without moving, the more pressure builds in the lower back.
The spine is designed for movement, not long periods of stillness.
Prolonged sitting can cause:
• Increased pressure on spinal discs
• Tight hip flexor muscles
• Reduced blood circulation
• Weak activation of core muscles
These changes can lead to back stiffness when you finally stand up.
You may notice:
• Stiffness after sitting for a long time
• Pain when standing up from the floor
• Tightness during Tarawih prayer
• Lower back discomfort after meals
• Feeling “locked” in the lower back
These symptoms often improve once the body starts moving again.
Small adjustments can make a big difference.
Try to stand up and move every 20–30 minutes.
Even short walks around the house help.
If sitting on the floor or sofa:
• Keep your back upright
• Avoid slouching forward
• Change positions regularly
Gentle stretches can reduce stiffness in the back and hips.
Simple movements can help restore mobility.
A short walk after iftar helps the body transition from sitting to movement.
This reduces stiffness during prayer.
Stronger core muscles support the spine and reduce strain during sitting.
If back pain persists during Ramadan, physiotherapy can help by:
• Assessing posture and movement patterns
• Releasing tight muscles
• Improving spinal mobility
• Strengthening core stability
• Teaching better sitting habits
Addressing the root cause of stiffness helps prevent recurring back pain.
1. Why does my back feel stiff after iftar?
Long periods of sitting after fasting can cause muscle and joint stiffness.
2. Is sitting on the floor bad for my back?
Not necessarily, but staying in one position too long can strain the spine.
3. Why does my back hurt during Tarawih prayer?
Back stiffness from prolonged sitting may become noticeable when standing for prayer.
4. Should I avoid sitting after iftar?
No — but it’s important to move and change positions regularly.
5. Can physiotherapy help with sitting-related back pain?
Yes. Physiotherapy can improve posture, mobility, and core strength.
6. Is this pain related to fasting?
Usually not directly. It’s more related to reduced movement and prolonged sitting.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, prayer, and gathering with loved ones.
But long periods of sitting after iftar can place extra strain on the lower back.
The key to preventing stiffness is simple movement.
Standing up, stretching, and maintaining good posture can help your spine stay comfortable throughout the evening.
Small changes in daily habits can make a big difference in reducing back pain during Ramadan.
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