Mel: Why does doing the leg press machine at the gym hurt my back? 

Megan: For persons who have had injury, putting the body in a fixed axis move can sometimes force the muscles to perform movements that compromise proper form. You are not able to accommodate or modify for the injury. The pelvis is put into a posterior tilt and the lumbar spine is flattened so this position compresses the lower back to an actual herniated position. Other reasons could be using too weight, your butt is coming off the seat, or you’re lowering the press down too far. Your back is speaking to you and there are other great options to work the legs. Using dumbbells really works on stability and balance as well while training, so maybe opt for that type of movement. 

If you have a question for Dr. FIT, email her at everybodysfit@gmail.com and be sure to check out her website www.everybodysfitoceanside.com