What is the origin of the idiom "get off one's back" and when to use it?

The exact origin of the phrase "get off one's back" is unclear, but it likely emerged in the mid-20th century as an idiomatic expression. The phrase draws on the imagery of someone being constantly hounded or pursued, likening the nagging or pressure from another person to an unwanted burden on one's back. It is commonly employed in interpersonal relationships, such as between family members, friends, or romantic partners, when someone feels overwhelmed or frustrated by another person's constant demands or criticisms.