What are the safest abdominal exercises for a bad lower back?!

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

Never do exercises that are suggested on this site. It might be dangerous for you. Search on the Internet or talk to your doctor about exercises. Find a reputable site that has clear instructions and most of all has either has a diagram or moreover has a PICTURE of each exercise before you done them.They should have step by step instructions with the picture of each exercise This will prevent you from getting a serous injury or experiencing additional pain.Look up abdominal exercises with back injuries.

Nursing Degree

If you have a bulging disc it's because you have tight muscles in your back pulling the vertebrae closer together to make it bulge. Freeing up your back muscles will get rid of the pressure and the problems with the discs so you can do whatever exercises you want then. Here's how to free up your back muscles to get rid of pain and to free up the discs:
Back:
(do from a sitting position)
Place your left hand on your left leg next to your body. Place your right hand over your left shoulder, fingers over the back and the palm in the front and firmly pull down on them and hold. After 30 seconds slowly lower your body forward and to the outside of your left leg, keeping your left arm fairly straight as you do. When you reach your lap remain there for another 10 seconds, release the pressure but rest there for another 30 seconds. Then reverse your hand positions and do your right side.
For best results relax your body first by taking a deep breath and exhaling then remain this relaxed.

Hi..I have exactly the same problem but unfortunately im having surgery in April as all non surgical options have been done now...I had various physio appointments and the main excercises i was shown for this were basically tightening ur core muscles by doing sort of pelvic floor excercises...lying down on bed and pulling all ur stomach muscles in and holding them for 5 seconds ensuring u regulate ur breathing as u do this... Also if u can try balancing on one leg whilst stood up and pulling ur muscles in as stated above whilst doing it will strengthen ur back and stomach muscles also...I was also recommended swimming as this is easier on ur back...Hope this helps x

Personal experience