I hurt my lower back exercising and am in serious pain. what is the best treatment?

Many things at once.: The best treatment for a lower back strain is icing immediately (then switch to warmth after 2-3 days), Ibuprofen or naproxen, and keeping active. In the past, people would be in bed all day after a back strain, but now we know you can actually decrease pain by being up and mobile, walking and doing normal activities. Don't be surprised if it takes 2-3 weeks to feel better! good luck!

Antiinflammatory med: Try resting and take an antiinflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen or naprosyn (naproxen). Sometimes a heat wrap will help as well. If you are still experiencing pain or if the pain is radiating down your leg, make an appointment with your doctor.

Short term: In addition to icing and some NSAID such as ibuprofen, i find the use of a back brace for up to two days (no more) can allow the nerve and muscle to relax and return to a normal state.