Question
My husband's back (around the kidney area and lower) tightens up every night when he sleeps.  He has to get up around 3:30 AM to sit in a chair and then try to finish his night's rest, meaning he's tired everyday.  Other than that he wakes me up to press on his back - something's got to give.  Help!

Answer
hello,
   Does his back hurt him during the day? or is it only at night? first thing you might want to check is your mattress. If it is older then 5 or 6 years its probably time for a new mattress. the sleep number is good, because it adjusts its firmness by a remote control. if his mattress is fine and his back pain is only at night , i would go get an x ray and rule out any spinal problems. It is possible it could be a kidney. If the x ray is negative then you may want some blood work and a urinalysis run on him.
It is tough to answer without seeing him, I also don't know his history. Has he suffered from a bad back in the past?  
When he stands up straight is one hip higher compared to the other? if so , then you may want to consult a chiropractor.
If he has pain shooting into the legs or numbness into the toes then he should consult a chiropractor immediately.
another suggestion would be to have him sleep on his back with a few pillows under his knees, and a plug in heating pad underneath his back all night. If this persists more then a week, i would consult a health professional.
Sorry , i can't give you more concrete answers. but, these suggestions should get you started in the right path. sorry about he bad grammar!

David Kulla, DC
Chiropractor
SynergyWellnessNy.com