Lifting, bending, and stretching are all triggers for severe back pain, or "throwing out" your back. The stronger your muscles are, the less likely they are to get hurt by such actions. Abdominal exercises are great strengtheners for the muscles that support your back because they are all connected. Your "abs" support your torso and take pressure off of your backbone and erector spinae, the back muscles, to hold your body erect. The oblique muscles wrap around from your spine to your stomach, covering both the erectus spinae and the abs. The oblique muscles, the muscles from hip to chest on the sides of your waist, brace them from the sides. Overall, the back, stomach and side muscles group together in a complex basis called the "core" muscles. A good abdominal exercise program will cover the entire core muscle structure and help make your entire torso stronger and eliminate back pain.

On the Other: It Won't Solve Everything

Abdominal exercises can strengthen your back, but other issues can affect your back's health, including your weight, age and if you have arthritis. You can help lessen these factors by strengthening core muscles, but not negate them completely.

Bottom Line

Although exercise is an excellent way to combat lower back problems, it won't help while you are having back pain. The key to long-term back pain relief is prevention. Strong core muscles keep your back in great shape and eliminate back problems.

Source:

Spine Health: Back Exercises and Abdominal Exercise Recommendations

All Spirit Fitness: What are Core Muscles and Core Strength?

More Information:

Muscles of the Back