A Great Stretch For Natural Back Pain Relief
  by Kalidasa Brown

When this muscle is tight, it can pull the lower back forward increasing the arch in the low back. This extra arch is one of the causes of low back pain.

The best relief for the psoas is a massage, however there are not many massage therapists who can do a good job. Stretching the psoas is another way to help relieve the problem. Here are two stretches for the psoas that might help you and your back.

The best stretch I know of for the psoas requires a little help. They don't need to be skilled, they just need to be able to move slowly and respond to your instructions. Start by lying down on a massage table or high bed. You need some height, so that the leg you are working can be hanging down off the side. Lower is okay, as long as you can bend your knee so that your knee can be drawn down.

Let your leg drop completely, relax it. If need be, the top of the foot can be resting on the floor. Have the other leg extended fully so it is flat. Your helper then takes your foot in one hand drawing it up and slightly and towards your head while the other hand gently and very slowly draws the knee down.

The other psoas stretch can be done on your own. Lie on your back and bend your right knee so that the foot is off to the right side with the knee at a ninety degree angle. With your left foot, gently press your right knee down. This will probably make your back arch, this is fine as long as it doesn't hurt. The same cautions from the previous stretch apply: move slowly and be careful.

These two stretches are a good start for back health. A regular exercise regime along with stretching, a good diet and necessary supplements are the main factors in having a healthy back. And, there are alternative ways to back health that work a lot better than the standard western model of drugs and surgery. Take some time to find out what else might be available.