I've had lower back problems for at least 3 yrs with shots if pain down my leg every so often. the more active i am the more it acts up. what does this?

Nerve impingment: Sounds like you are pinching nerve as it exits between bones in spine causing pain that travels down your leg (sciatica). Common causes are foraminal stenosis ( unlikely for your age), herniated disc ( more likely for your age and activity level), and spondylolisthesis. These may or may not need treatment. Because it is persistent and possibly interfering with lifestyle should see doc.