The term IN NEED OF A BACKRUB can be summarized by two crossword solutions: TENSE (5 letters) and SORE (4 letters). This phrase is often used to describe someone who is feeling stressed or overwhelmed, and is in need of physical comfort. The word TENSE implies a state of being anxious or strained, while the word SORE suggests physical discomfort or pain. Together, these words suggest that someone is in need of a backrub to help them relax and ease their tension.