Should you rest a sore back?

For decades the advice was bed rest. We now know that gentle movement is one of the best things you can do for an ordinary bout of back pain.

In the first few days, keep moving within comfort: short walks, changing position often, and simple exercises like cat–cow and bridges. Heat can help the muscles relax.

Call us, or your GP, sooner if pain travels below the knee, if you notice numbness or weakness, or if you feel unwell in yourself. Those are signs worth checking properly.