Take breaks and bend backwards. For that spot in your back find a small ball and put it just below where it hurts and then bend backwards over the ball (if you can do it where your head is hanging, like off the edge of the bed or something, even better). It will hurt like hell but do it as long as you can stand it. It will seriously help your back. (this stretch brought to you by my chiropractor. :) I can show you better when I get back if you want.
There was a study that came out while I was a paralegal (I cannot remember links or anything, for which I apologize) that suggested that sitting up straight actually isn't all that good, and that a posture tilted fifteen degrees forward was better, but far better was about fifteen degrees back.
Sounds like the problem is muscle spasm, and that is why it is relieved by stretching out the spasm when you slouch or do aikido. It is an occupational hazard for people who read a lot. The muscle you describe sounds like the one that is used for holding a book, actually. I think you will need to experiment with postures where you can consciously stretch and relax that muscle, such as slouching a bit, holding the book propped up against some surface, and, most important, changing position frequently. If it were me, and I couldn't figure out what to do, I would consult once with a physical therapist for suggestions. Any idea if the school has one? Also, you should definitely send Bob an email - I would suspect that he deals with this in occupational medicine.
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