Hi Tina.

The short answer is that you have developed low spine instability thereby increasing your lumbar curvature. The curve in the lumbar area of the back (low back) is curved forward so laying on the floor will force the curve to the back or make the lumbar curve less. You probably feel even better if you have your knees bent as well. Because with low spinal instability, the muscles that raise the legs pull the spine forward. You may also have painful areas right in the middle of you butt cheek due to another specific muscle called the piriformis which tightens with spinal instability. In fact, there is a predictable chain of events that occurs with spinal instability. Unfortunately, pain is the last to show up! Unfortunately, most of my patients come to see me when they feel pain. By this time, there has been several changes to the spine, the muscles, tendons and ligaments. The longer one waits, the more severe the changes…even in the absence of pain. Pain only comes when the body fails. Not much pain during the failing process. That is why you may hear someone say that the pain went away. Ya but is comes back is not treated properly. This is why if perform a comprehensive orthopedic exam. In fact, without this level of exam, you cannot determine improvement in function. Just a spinal exam is not enough. I measure strength, movement, coordination, endurance and sensation along with the spinal screening.
However, laying on the floor is not the best for your back and is really an indicator you need some help.
You can call anytime for a free consultation.

Thanks,
 
Dr Bob
Expert Health and Rehabilitation
Goaskdrbob.com