Most people think back pain has to be sharp or shooting to be serious. It doesn’t. That feeling like your lower back is constantly stretched, tight, or “about to snap” is one of the most common complaints I hear — and in most cases, it’s not coming from the spine itself. Here’s what’s often happening: • muscle overload from prolonged sitting • protective muscle spasm after minor strain • weak core shifting stress to the lumbar spine • early disc changes that don’t show dramatic symptoms yet The