Physical activity combats back pain far better than either pain killers or bed rest.

What I c'd say with my observation is now backed with medical research.According to a study published in World famous medical journal 'Lance',taking pain killers for back pain or going on a bed rest does not help in relieving the pain.Instead, using heat packs or physiotherapy can be far more effective.However, this again comes with a disclaimer,that this works only in the case where pain is not too acute.The best bet is to take the specialists advice and act accordingly.