I have cronic lower back pain.  My doctor told me my lower back is in bad shape a few months ago.  They also asked me to stop riding and racing dirtbikes.

Well I decided to try something different since I could not get results with their methods.  I decided to attack the back and make it stronger.

I typically have always done ab work.  It may not look like it but I do.  You always read the crunches are all you need because situps may hurt your back.  Well I started to Hyper Extensions for the lower back and floowing it up 3 times a week with incline bench sit ups.  I do around 75.

My back was sore (along with my abs) for a week or two, but now I feel really solid.  I have raced with no issues, and sleep well.

I went back to my doctor to discuss the results, and he said that they cannot recommend that type of workout for 90% of people due to fear of injury.  Personally I think that they are overly cautious.  If you can handle it and a little pain, build a muscle shield around your lower back.