Question:
Does your Lower Back Hurt after Using a Treadmill?

My new year's resolution was to add regular exercise to ensure I shed my last 60 lbs. I'm working up to walking daily and aerobics twice weekly. So far, I have walked twice a week and aerobicized twice a week. Time is a huge problem for me, so I thought the treadmill would solve the walking issue. I could exercise in the privacy of my home after my girls go to sleep. However, my lower back hurts like hell the morning after walking 20-25 minutes on the treadmill. Is this just my body getting used to it or am I not using the proper posture? At this point, I much prefer natural walking to the treadmill, but with my schedule, I just can't fit it in daily yet.<br><br>I've been down about my weight loss slowing and only losing 15 lbs. in the last two months. I want to ensure I lose the rest of my weight and it's feeling out of reach right now. I'd appreciate encouragement and advice from other post-ops on how to deal with this and ultimately meet my goal. Thanks.    — [Deactivated Member] (posted on January 12, 2001)

January 12, 2001
Wow Denise, I am confused! For me, it is just the opposite- walking outside hurts my knees, but on the treadmill, I am fine. I thought it was because the treadmill is softer than asphalt outside and therefore easier on my joints. Is your treadmill set flat? Most come with incline, and if yours is inclined, even a tad, it might cause your pain. I,too, have slowed down in the weightloss department, but as long as I am losing (even only 6 pounds a month) I am trying to keep positive. I am sure you realize the closer we get to goal, the slower it comes off. I doubt I said anything you don't know, but I just wanted to encourage you and let you know you aren't alone. Hang in there and try to remember how far you have come in such a short time:)
   — M B.

January 12, 2001
Denise: The lower back pain could have nothing to do with the treadmill. However, I was told that we should NEVER hold on to the treadmill or bar when walking -- just walk naturally, swinging your arms naturally. Otherwise, this could be the source of your pain.
   — Cindy H.

January 12, 2001
I, too, had some back pain when I began treadmilling. I think what was causing it was my bending over slightly to hold onto the bar. Once I began standing more upright & not holding on, the backaches went away & I began really enjoying my workouts.
   — Kathy W.