Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Patients with the inability to stay in a prone and supine position for the required procedure durations (e.g., ≥30 minutes at a time)
Any contraindication to an MRI exam, or severe claustrophobia that would prevent safe completion of the scan
Previous lumbar spine surgery or history of severe lumbar injury (e.g., fracture) that, in the investigation team’s judgment, would interfere with participation or safety
Patients with known bleeding disorders or current therapeutic anticoagulation that would increase risk of bruising/bleeding with massage
Patients with skin conditions affecting the treatment area (e.g., rash, open wound, active dermatitis) or known allergy to any materials used during treatment (e.g., gels/cleaners), if applicable
Receipt of a new pain treatment within 3 days of the study visit (e.g., injection, ablation, spinal manipulation, massage/manual therapy) that could confound pre/post measures
Use of short-acting opioid analgesics or sedating medications within 24 hours of the study visit
Have an implanted device in or near the treatment area that could interfere with safe application of external pressure
Have used an investigational drug within 30 days of study enrollment
History of any major cardiovascular events including heart valve disease, ongoing angina, cardiac arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, stroke, transient ischemic attack, or peripheral vascular disease.
Clinically significant unstable neurologic or systemic illness that would preclude safe participation, as judged by the investigation team.
Surgical intervention for pain within 1 month prior to enrollment
Active infection, wound, or other external trauma to the areas to be treated
Have a known history of any condition or factor judged by the investigator to preclude participation in the study or which might hinder adherence
Inability to provide consent