At least four out of five adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. Muscle strains and sprains from overdoing it at the gym are common causes of low back pain. Interestingly, an important component of relieving low back pain, even that resulting from the use of an exercise machine, is the right exercise program -- with "right" being the key ingredient.
Causes
The most common cause of lower back pain is soft tissue or muscle damage resulting in strain or sprain. A back strain occurs when muscles in the lower back are overstretched or torn. Sprains occur when the ligaments, fibrous tissue that connects muscle to muscle and muscle to bone, in the lower back are stretched too far. Either condition causes pain and inflammation around the muscles, and significant inflammation can cause painful and debilitating spasms in the lower back.
Exercise Triggers
Using too much weight on a machine, inappropriate form or technique during a specific exercise, or exercising too vigorously after a period of inactivity can all result in lower back strain or sprain. Jogging on a treadmill and other high-impact exercise activities can also strain joints in the knees, hips and back. If you are obese, even walking on a treadmill can increase the risk of strain during exercise because your lower back carries most of your weight.
Treatment
Your doctor may recommend a day or two of rest if your back pain is severe. Anti-inflammatory medication may also help reduce discomfort, but never start a medication without checking with your doctor first. The next step in treating lower back pain caused by muscle strain is often a slow return to exercise. A well-rounded program that includes low-impact aerobics, strengthening exercises for your back and abs, and flexibility exercises that might include yoga or tai chi is best, according to Dr. Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., writing for Spine-Health.
Prevention
Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising routinely and practicing good posture when standing or sitting can help prevent lower back strain and pain. Physical therapists and other fitness experts, such as certified personal trainers, can work with you to perfect your form on exercise equipment, which may prevent future strains. They can also help you design a complete program that gives you the right balance of aerobic, strengthening and stretching exercises without overusing your back muscles. Always check with your physician before beginning an exercise program, especially if you have a history of back pain.
Warning
While lower back pain from muscle strain usually resolves in a few weeks, a few symptoms do indicate a possible emergency. See your doctor immediately if you have a sudden problem with bowel or bladder function, develop weakness in your legs or have severe, unrelenting pain.
