Low back pain affects 80% of Americans at some points in their lives. Low back pain may be the result of trauma, degenerative changes or congenital anomaly. Regardless of the cause, low back pain responds well to a vigorous and controlled exercise program.

Muscle strains and imbalances are the most common conditions found in the lumbar spine. Strains normally occur when lifting heavy objects or stretching beyond the limits of your muscles and ligaments.

Imbalances are found in a large percentage of apparently healthy individuals. Imbalances normally occur when there is one tight muscle group and a weakened muscle on the opposite side of the joint. Common examples are tight chest (pectorals) with weak upper back (posterior shoulder girdle); tight low back with weak abdominals; or tight hip flexors with weak abdominals.

Normally there are distinct patterns of muscle imbalance. Typical imbalances include weak abdominals, weak gluteals (buttocks), tight hip flexors (front of hip), tight hamstrings (back of thigh), limited aerobic capacity (get winded easily) and poor leg strength.