Is Bed Rest Good for Back Pain?

Q: Is bed rest recommended for back pain?

A: It’s a common question, and one I hear often—especially from people who are trying to do the “right thing” when their back starts acting up. For a long time, bed rest was the go-to recommendation for back pain. But we now know better. Studies have shown that staying in bed for long periods doesn’t actually help your back heal. In fact, it can sometimes make things worse.

Now, that doesn’t mean you should push through intense pain or ignore your body when it’s telling you to slow down. During the early stages of back pain, especially when inflammation is present, some gentle rest and a lighter schedule can absolutely be helpful. But full-on bed rest for days at a time? That’s something to avoid.

Your body heals best when it’s gently moving. The goal should be to restore healthy function and rebuild strength where it's needed. That usually means targeted exercises that stretch irritated muscles and strengthen the ones that support your spine. Simply lying in bed can actually weaken those muscles, making it harder to recover and even adding to your discomfort over time.

A global report from the International Paris Task Force on Back Pain echoed this idea and strongly encouraged staying active as part of the healing process. They also emphasized the importance of having your back pain evaluated by someone who understands the spine inside and out—like a chiropractor.

Chiropractors can pinpoint what’s really going on and offer care that fits your specific needs. That may include gentle adjustments, therapeutic exercises, or even working alongside other specialists like orthopedists or neurologists if your situation calls for it.

If your back is bothering you, don’t feel like you have to handle it on your own—or stay stuck in bed. With the right guidance and care, you can begin to move better and feel better, one step at a time. We're here to help you get there.