Question
Long story short, my spoiled cat likes to eat a couple times in the middle of the night and since I'm self employed I don't mind feeding him.

I'm 47 and in excellent overall health. Starting this week when I've bent down to feed him I've noticed lower back pain and stiffness, even when using mostly my legs (which are the strongest part of my body). Last night was the most painful so far.

When I woke up I didn't feel much, and when I fed him throughout today doing the same bending down, also no problems. Seems that sleeping makes my muscles tighten up?

Any suggestions on stretching exercises or treatment or should I visit a chiropractor?

Answer
Hi, Theo,

Time for a more correct understanding of back pain.

You've developed chronic back tension.  The way out:  recover control of your own tension -- and that doesn't involve stretching.

The fastest, most effective way:
http://somatics.com/back_pain.htm

on stretching: (why stretching doesn't work very well)
http://somatics.com/stretch.htm

best regards to your cat,