Interview: Lower Back Mechanics and Spine Health with Dr. Joseph Camisa

In this episode of the Inner Athlete Training podcast, physical therapist Dr. Joseph Camisa discusses lower back mechanics and spine health based on the research of Dr. Stuart McGill. He explains that the lower back is designed primarily to transmit power between the hips and shoulders while remaining stable, acting like a system of guy wires to prevent excessive movement under load. Contrary to popular core-training myths, Dr. Camisa advises against drawing in the stomach, advocating instead for a 360-degree abdominal brace to maintain natural spinal alignment and joint resilience. He highlights how stiff hips or improper movement patterns force the lumbar spine to compensate, making it vulnerable to tissue wear and disc damage over time. To safely build core endurance without straining the back, he demonstrates the McGill Big Three exercises: the bird dog, side plank, and modified curl-up.

Visit Inner Athlete Training : innerathletetraining.com