I have also been extremely active and a few years back tore my acl. Ever since there I have not been able to run. Since my brother came to visit, and we discussed his knee and back problems, I decided to heed his advice. I went out and purchased a pair of vibram shoes. I will never buy a pair of runners again. I have noticed HUGE improvement in my knee in a week alone. I am able to use the leg press with 110lb of weight and not worry about my knee. I highly highly suggest people research them, and I highly recommend them to anyone with knee and back pain.
Thanks for your response... I actually did a stint of physical therapy too...yes they focus on strengthening the core... I remember the different exercises...guess I should do them frequently... Thanks again.
I don't know what kind of back issues you are suffering from, and I am no doctor... what I can tell you is from my own experience. I too had lower back issues and I was told that a stronger core/abdominal region makes for a stronger back.
When I was in physical therapy for my back, all I did was core exercises and walking. It all helped my back. Absolutely there was some pain, and when there is pain it is normally time to stop.
Check with your doctor who can then send you to a physical therapist and they can put you on the right program to a healthier back.