By Generosa D. Dingal, LMT — Gen Spa Founder
Lower back pain is one of the most common concerns we see at Gen Spa, and many clients are surprised to learn that the pain is not always coming from the back itself. One of the biggest hidden contributors is a deep core muscle called the psoas—a powerful muscle that becomes shortened and inflamed from too much sitting.
What Is the Psoas Muscle?
The psoas is a long, thick muscle that connects the lower spine to the pelvis and legs. It plays a major role in posture, balance, walking, and the stability of your entire core. Because it attaches directly to the lumbar vertebrae, even a small amount of tension can create significant pressure in the lower back.
How Sitting Shortens the Psoas
When we sit for long hours—at work, in the car, or while relaxing at home—the psoas remains in a flexed, shortened position.
Over time, the body adapts to the positions we repeat most often, which means the psoas gradually becomes:
- Tight
- Shortened
- Less flexible
- Overactive
This chronic shortening pulls the lumbar spine forward and downward, creating compression and strain.
How a Tight Psoas Causes Lower Back Pain
A shortened psoas can lead to:
- Constant lower back tightness or aching
- Increased curvature in the lower spine
- Hip stiffness or discomfort
- Pain that radiates into the glutes or legs
- Difficulty standing fully upright
- Reduced mobility and range of motion
Many people treat only the surface symptoms—stretching the back or massaging the glutes—without addressing the real root: a chronically contracted psoas caused by prolonged sitting.
How Therapeutic Massage Helps Restore Balance
At Gen Spa, we use specialized therapeutic techniques to gently release deep tension stored in the psoas and surrounding muscles. When this area is treated correctly:
- Circulation improves
- Pressure on the lumbar spine is reduced
- Posture becomes more aligned and relaxed
- Movement feels smoother and more natural
- Lower back pain often decreases significantly
Releasing the psoas doesn’t just help physically—it also calms the nervous system. The psoas is often referred to as the “muscle of emotion,” storing stress and tension. This is why many clients feel not only physical relief but also emotional lightness after treatment.
What You Can Do at Home
To support healing between sessions:
- Stand up and stretch every 30–60 minutes
- Practice deep diaphragmatic breathing
- Do gentle hip-opening stretches
- Strengthen your core and glutes
- Avoid long pehttps://genspa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/woman-traveling-in-france-2023-11-27-05-16-47-utc_Easy-Resize.com_.jpgds of sitting without movement
Consistent small habits create meaningful change over time.
Experience True Relief at Gen Spa
If you’re experiencing lower back pain, stiffness, or hip tightness, your psoas may be asking for help. At Gen Spa, our therapists specialize in finding and treating the deeper sources of pain—not just the surface symptoms.
Disclaimer
This article is based on personal experience, independent research, and general wellness education. The information shared is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
The content reflects the holistic wellness perspective and professional experience of Generosa D. Dingal, LMT/Esthetician and founder of Gen Spa. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition.
Readers should always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed medical provider before making changes to their diet, lifestyle, supplements, or health practices.
Gen Spa encourages individuals to take an active role in their health while working with appropriate medical professionals when necessary.
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