Back pain and the exercise prescription.

Rationale for the use of exercise in the treatment and prevention of LBP and injury has been discussed. Current knowledge supports the use of individualized exercise programs that emphasize the restoration and maintenance of adequate lumbar-spinal function. When indicated, aerobic exercises to develop overall fitness and prevent deconditioning should be included in the exercise prescription. Several commonly used exercises for strengthening the lumbar extensor muscles have been reviewed. Lumbar extension exercises that stabilize the pelvis, provide a means for progressively increasing the resistance, and allow the exerciser to move through a full range of lumbar movement appear to offer the greatest benefit to the patient with LBP.