They should be considered in keeping with advice from your healthcare provider.

A comprehensive back rehabilitation program should consist ofstretching and strengthening exercises.

If it lasts longer than a week or two, make an appointment with yourprimary care physicianor physical therapist.

Woman doing yoga

Cal Crary/Taxi/Getty Images

It is shown in the photo at the top of the article.

If any activity causes more pain, stop the exercise immediately.

You should do these exercises three times per day.

Your physical therapist can also tell you what to avoid if you have low back pain.

A Word From Verywell

Keeping your spine healthy is important to maintain your maximal functional mobility.

A heating pad may work in the days after your injury begins to heal.

Some people may even want to try switching back and forth to get relief.

Exercise is recommended for a low back injury, including gentle stretching and strengthening.

U.S. National Library of Medicine, MedlinePlus.Back pain.

2018;13(8):e0201017.

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0201017

American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Low Back Strain and Sprain.

2017;356:i6748.

doi:10.1136/bmj.i6748

Kaiser Foundation.Use Heat or Ice to Relieve Low Back Pain.

2022 Apr 27;17(4):e0265970.

2018;391(10137):2368-2383. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(18)30489-6