Back Exercises and Lower Back Pain

Here's a brief discussion on back exercises and lower back pain.

To get a general overview on back pain, read my page on potential causes of mechanical lower back pain.

This web page is intended for informational purposes only, and is not intended to diagnose or treat medical problems. If you are suffering from lower back pain, I advise you to consult with a licensed health professional.

Many people that I meet in the gym with back pain are very aware that strong abdominal muscles play a role in keeping the lower back healthy, but I often find that people downplay the impact of having strong lower back muscles to prevent back pain.

Having Strong Lower Back Muscles is just as important as having strong abdominal muscles.

The abdominals help to support the lower back by preventing excessive twisting, extension, and arching (backwards bending of the spine) of the lower back.

Whereas, the lower back muscles prevent excessive twisting and flexion (forward bending of the spine).

Importance of Back Exercises and Lower Back Pain

In a study looking at the lower back muscles of people with chronic lower back pain, researchers found that the MRI's revealed a wasting away (atrophy) of the lower back muscles.

In addition, strengthening the lower back muscles has been a reliable treatment for getting rid of lower back pain.

Back Exercises must be included in a fitness program in order to maintain a healthy spine.

A Common Back Injury:
Strained (pulled) Back Muscles

A common injury that affects the lower back is strained lower back muscles. One way, that people strain their lower back muscles is lifting heavy objects.

When your lower back is weak, you are more likely to strain your muscles when you lift heavy or awkward objects.

In addition, lifting heavy objects places stress on the cartilage between your vertebra (discs), so having strong lower back muscles takes pressure off the discs when you lift heavy objects.

A Chain is only as Strong as its Weakest Link

Your body is like a chain, and it is only as strong as its weakest link. If you only exercise your abdominal muscles, then your overall core strength and back stability will be compromised.

You must make sure that you also include back exercises in your core workout.

I hope that this helps to give you a little more perspective on the relationship of back exercises and lower back pain.

Don't Forget about Lower Back Exercises!

Yours in Health,
Charles A. Inniss, Jr. DPT

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