Low Back Pain: Why Rest is Not Enough 

Why Rest Alone Doesn’t Fix Most Low Back Pain

The spine is designed to move. Prolonged rest can contribute to:

• Reduced joint mobility
  
  

• Muscle stiffness and deconditioning
  
  

• Increased sensitivity of the nervous system
  
  

• Slower return to daily activities and exercise
  
  

In many cases, appropriate movement helps restore function and reduce pain more effectively than rest alone. Physiotherapy focuses on guiding this movement safely and progressively.

Acute Low Back Pain: What Often Helps Early On

Acute low back pain usually comes on suddenly and may be related to muscle strain, joint irritation, or movement-related stiffness. During this stage, reducing pain and restoring movement are the priorities.

Physiotherapy treatment for acute low back pain may include:

• Spinal manipulation or mobilization to improve joint movement
  
  

• Soft tissue mobilization to reduce muscle guarding and tension
  
  

• Neural mobilization techniques when nerve sensitivity is contributing to symptoms
  
  

• Advice on staying active while avoiding positions or movements that worsen pain
  
  

These treatments aim to help you move more comfortably, return to daily activities sooner, and reduce the risk of ongoing symptoms.

Chronic Low Back Pain: Why Exercise Becomes Essential

When low back pain lasts longer than expected or keeps returning, treatment needs to shift. Research consistently shows that active rehabilitation plays a central role in managing chronic low back pain.

Effective physiotherapy programs often include:

• Aerobic exercise, which can reduce pain sensitivity and improve overall conditioning
  
  

• Mobility exercises to maintain spinal and hip movement
  
  

• Motor control exercises, such as Pilates-based movements, to improve coordination and spinal support
  
  

• Strength training to build resilience in the back and surrounding muscles
  
  

• Mind-body movement approaches, such as Tai Chi, to improve balance, confidence, and control
  
  

Rather than avoiding movement, the goal is to gradually increase strength, tolerance, and confidence with activity.

Why Care Outside the Clinic Matters

Hands-on treatment can be helpful, but physiotherapy does not end when your appointment does. Long-term improvement depends heavily on what you do between visits.

Key factors include:

• Consistency with prescribed home exercises
  
  

• Gradual progression of activity levels
  
  

• Managing posture and daily movement habits
  
  

• Knowing how to respond appropriately to flare-ups
  
  

My treatment plans emphasize education and active strategies so you can manage your back pain with confidence outside the clinic.

When Should You See a Physiotherapist for Low Back Pain?

You may benefit from physiotherapy if:

• Pain is affecting work, sleep, or exercise
  
  

• Symptoms persist despite rest
  
  

• Pain keeps returning
  
  

• You want to remain active without worsening symptoms
  
  

Early assessment often helps prevent acute low back pain from becoming persistent.

Physiotherapy for Low Back Pain in New Westminster and Vancouver

If you’re dealing with low back pain and want an approach that goes beyond rest alone, David Ko Physiotherapy in New Westminster and Simple clinic in Vancouver provides individualized care focused on movement, recovery, and long-term results.

👉 Book a physiotherapy assessment today to start moving with confidence again.