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Discrete Element Method can be used for numerical analysis of different geotechnical problems such as retaining wall earth pressure distribution. This paper is an effort to use the method in determining active and passive earth pressure distribution behind a retaining wall. Soil mass in the present method is treated as comprising of blocks, which are connected by
elasto-plastic Winkler springs. The solution of this method satisfies all equilibrium and compatibility conditions. The method has the simplicity of the classic limit analysis and offers more ability in solving problems in complex geometry and loading conditions such as seismic impacts, pore water pressure, nonhomogeneity of the soil reinforced backfill soils, etc. In this paper, the formulation of the method is briefly reviewed. Examples are shown to demonstrate the applicability of the method for analysis of earth pressure behind a retaining wall including dynamic lateral
pressure of non-homogeneous soil. The results are compared with previous classic methods.
Applicability of OEM for analysis of reinforced soil structure and advantages of this method over conventional methods are also discussed.