Low back pain is the single most common complaint we see in our Pacific Beach office. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp shooting pain. Often, the source isn’t the spine itself, but the muscles that support the spine. If you sit for long periods or lift heavy objects, your Quadratus Lumborum (QL) and Glute muscles may be locked in a battle of tension with your Psoas!

What does Low Back Pain feel like?

Ache or stiffness in the lower lumbar region

Sharp pain when standing up from a seated position

Pain that radiates into the buttocks (often confused with Sciatica)

Limited range of motion when twisting or bending

Why do we get Low Back Pain? The lower back supports the weight of the entire upper body. In San Diego, we see two main causes: “Tech Back” (weak core and tight hip flexors from sitting) and “Weekend Warrior” syndrome (overdoing it on the weekends). When the hip flexors (Psoas) are tight from sitting, they pull the lumbar spine forward, compressing the discs. The back muscles then tighten up to prevent you from falling forward, creating a painful cycle of tension.

How does massage help recover from Low Back Pain? We don’t just rub the back; we balance the pelvis. At A New Body Massage, we treat the Psoas (hip flexors), the Glutes, and the QL muscles. Releasing the Psoas allows the pelvis to return to a neutral position, which immediately takes the pressure off the lower back. We then release the tight back muscles that have been overworking. This structural approach provides lasting relief rather than just a temporary “feel good” sensation.

How to prevent / recover from Low Back Pain?

Stretch your hip flexors daily (lunges are great for this)

Strengthen your core muscles to take the load off your spine

Ensure your car seat and work chair support your lumbar curve

Get up and move every 30 minutes if you have a desk job