Should I exercise with low back pain?
Exercise is probably the best medicine for back pain. I encourage patients with back pain to keep moving and return to exercise as soon as possible.
Start gently…
It is generally advisable to start gently and build up to your normal exercise routine after an episode of acute back pain. If you strained your back whilst exercising you may wish to rest for 24-72 hours.
Exercising with pain
Initially whilst exercising it is ok to have some pain. If pain is severe or escalating you are probably pushing yourself too much. Pushing through the pain barrier is not the right attitude. The focus is on improving movement and calming down the body’s protective mechanism so your brain is reassured that the exercise you are doing is not causing harm.
If you are worried, get advice..
If fear or worry is preventing you from exercising make an appointment to get advice.