Thanks for the input. Squats are bad news. I lectured my kids football coach about squats. Got the impression he didn't get it, and somewhat blew a gasket, and let him have it for not knowing more about what is his job. I'll look into the alternatives mentioned. I do all kinds of ab stuff, and have not had muscular back issues in a couple of years, which again leads me to believe that it is something more, and maybe reducing stress on the vertebrae is part of the issue. Thanks again
I'm recovering from chondroplasty on both knees. My advise is don't abuse the knees, my hindsight is 20/20.
Squats done improperly are bad news. Done right, they are probably the best all around exercise there is and excellent for strengthening and rehabbing the knees and back among other things. 98% of people doing squats in your average gym are doing them wrong.
and i can attest to the fact that doing deadlifts wrong can lead to severe lower back injury. but i'd still say with proper form and not trying to be a hero, deads and squats are all you need.