Speaking symbolically, listening deeply to the "metaphysical metaphors" client make about their life, body, and pain. Metaphorically speaking, low back pain often exists when there is a lack of emotional support: feeling as though "no one's got my back"; having to always bend over backwards"; or feeling like "I've been stabbed in the back". Listening deeply to clients distinguishes a massage technician (who performs the same massage on every client), from a massage therapist who attends to the underlying causes of pain. The "metaphysical metaphors" our clients use provides us a richer context for us to focus our attention and offer a holistic approach customized to each unique client.

The two major muscles associate with low back pain are the Quadrates Lumborum and the Psoas. These muscles sandwich the front and back of the Kidney- the organs associated with "fear" according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Our attitude impacts the energy of the kidneys (with the adrenal glands positioned atop) leading us to embrace a fight-or-flight reaction or accept-and-respond reaction. Lack of support can exaggerate fear and paranoia contributing to the idea that people are conspiring against us "behind our back" or trying to "get back at us" all the while we wonder who tried to "stab us in the back".

Seek a massage therapist, and experience the "feelings" of your back. You also will get that much needed pat on the back!