Best Physiotherapy Exercises for Chronic Back Pain Relief

Living with chronic back pain can be debilitating and significantly impact your quality of life. At Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, we believe in empowering our patients with effective exercises that can alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best physiotherapy exercises for chronic back pain relief.


Understanding Chronic Back Pain


Chronic back pain is a common condition that lasts for 12 weeks or longer, even after the initial cause of pain has been treated. Activities like sitting for long periods, repetitive movements, and even stress can contribute to chronic back pain. Physiotherapy can play a crucial role in managing and alleviating this discomfort.


The Importance of Exercise in Managing Back Pain


Exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage chronic back pain. It helps to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improves flexibility, and enhances your overall physical health. Here are some of the most recommended exercises by our experienced physiotherapists at Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic.


1. Gentle Stretches


Stretching exercises can relieve tension in the muscles and improve flexibility. Here are a couple of stretches to consider:


- Cat-Cow Stretch: This yoga-inspired stretch involves moving your spine from a rounded position (cat) to an arched one (cow). It helps to increase the flexibility of your spine and stretches the muscles.


- Child’s Pose: Another yoga favorite, this pose gently stretches your lower back and hips. Kneel on the floor, sit back on your heels, and extend your arms forward on the floor. Hold this position for about 20-30 seconds.


2. Strengthening Exercises


Strengthening the core muscles can stabilize your spine and reduce back pain. Here are a couple of strengthening exercises:


- Bridges: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips off the ground while squeezing your glutes. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down. Repeat 10-15 times.


- Pelvic Tilts: Lie on your back with knees bent. Tighten your abdominal muscles and press your lower back into the floor. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times.


3. Aerobic Conditioning


Low-impact aerobic exercises can improve blood flow to the back, promoting healing and reducing stiffness. Consider the following:


- Walking: Simple yet effective, walking can be very beneficial for chronic back pain sufferers. Aim for a brisk 20-30 minute walk daily.


- Swimming: The buoyancy in water can reduce gravity’s impact on your spine, making swimming an excellent aerobic exercise for back pain relief.


4. Flexibility and Balance Exercises


Enhancing your flexibility and balance can substantially assist in managing chronic back pain. Here are two exercises you may wish to consider:


- Piriformis Stretches: Sit on the floor with one leg extended straight in front of you. Bend the other knee placing the foot on the outside of the straight leg, then gently pull the knee towards the opposite shoulder. This will stretch your piriformis muscle located deep in the buttock. Maintain this position for about 20-30 seconds, then switch legs.


- Knee-to-Chest Stretch: While lying on your back, bring one knee towards your chest and hold onto it for 20-30 seconds. Alternate between legs. This stretch can help ease tightness in your lower back.


5. Postural Exercises


Correcting your posture can alleviate pressure on the back. Here are some to practice:


- Wall Sits: Stand about 10-12 inches from a wall, then lean back until your back is flat against the wall. Slide down until your knees are at a right angle, hold for about 5-10 seconds, then slide back up. Repeat 10 times.


- Shoulder Blade Squeeze: Sit or stand with your arms by your side. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and hold for about 5 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10-15 times.


Customized Care at Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic


At Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, we understand that every individual’s experience with chronic back pain is unique. That’s why our experienced physiotherapists provide personalized care plans tailored to your specific needs. We utilize evidence-based techniques to treat and manage your pain, not just addressing the symptoms but getting to the root cause of your condition.


Reclaim Your Life from Chronic Back Pain


Don’t let chronic back pain control your life. If you’re struggling with persistent discomfort, it's time to take action. Get in touch with Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic today to book an appointment. Our expert team is here to help you on your journey to pain relief and improved quality of life. Call us now or book online to schedule your consultation. Let’s work together towards a pain-free future!


In conclusion, incorporating these physiotherapy exercises into your routine can make a significant difference in managing chronic back pain. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, and let Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic be your partner in achieving better health and wellness.

Share This Blog

Man receiving physical therapy on his knee; therapist manipulating leg.
February 10, 2026
Learn how Pembina Physiotherapy guides your post-surgical knee rehab, using innovative methods for faster recovery and stronger outcomes.
Person holding their wrist, possibly due to pain or discomfort, with fingers and thumb gripping.
February 4, 2026
Experience relief from carpal tunnel syndrome with evidence-based physiotherapy exercises and treatments in Winnipeg.
Man assisting a young girl doing physical therapy on a mat. Blue balls and wall bars in the background.
January 27, 2026
Learn how pediatric physiotherapy addresses developmental delays, torticollis, and healthy growth in young children.
Physical therapist examining a patient's knee. Pink shirt, light room, gray exercise ball.
January 21, 2026
Find out why personalized one-on-one rehab is key to faster, safer recovery after joint replacement.
Person receiving cupping therapy on their back with three glass cups attached, and a hand holding a fourth.
January 13, 2026
Explore how cupping therapy at Pembina can ease winter muscle tightness and improve mobility.
January 7, 2026
A new year brings new beginnings—and for many in Winnipeg, it also marks a fresh start on the road to recovery after surgery. Whether you’ve had a joint replacement, sports injury repair, or any other surgical procedure, this is the perfect time to set realistic rehabilitation goals to regain your strength, mobility, and independence. At Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic , we’re here to guide you through every step of your recovery journey, helping you make 2026 your healthiest year yet. Why Post-Surgical Rehab Matters After surgery, your body needs time, targeted movement, and professional care to heal properly. Post-surgical physiotherapy is critical for restoring muscle strength, improving joint mobility, and preventing complications such as stiffness or re-injury. Without a clear plan and expert guidance, it’s easy to lose motivation or push too hard, risking setbacks. That’s why setting achievable goals and working closely with a skilled physiotherapist can make all the difference. At Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, our team creates personalized, evidence-based rehabilitation plans designed to help you safely meet your milestones. Setting SMART Rehab Goals: A Framework for Success The most successful recovery plans use SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Rather than vague aspirations like “get better soon,” SMART goals give you a clear path to follow and make it easier to track your progress. For example: Specific: “I want to walk unaided for 10 minutes.” Measurable: “I will record my walking time each week.” Achievable: “Based on my progress, this is within reach this month.” Relevant: “This supports my independence and daily routine.” Time-bound: “I aim to achieve this by the end of January.” Your Pembina physiotherapist will help you break down your overall recovery into manageable steps, ensuring you stay motivated and celebrate each success along the way. Top Tips for Setting and Achieving Post-Surgical Rehab Goals 1. Know Your Baseline At your first post-surgical assessment, your physiotherapist will evaluate your current function, strength, and range of motion. Understanding your starting point is key for setting appropriate goals and tracking improvement. 2. Focus on What Matters Most to You Whether you want to get back to hiking the Winnipeg trails, playing with your grandchildren, or simply walking pain-free, let your therapist know what activities matter most. Personal goals are more motivating and make your rehab program feel truly relevant. 3. Pace Yourself Recovery takes time. Trying to rush the process can lead to setbacks or injury. Your physiotherapist will guide you through each stage at a pace that’s safe and effective for your body. 4. Stay Consistent with Home Exercises In-clinic treatments are important, but your effort at home will accelerate your progress. Follow your therapist’s instructions carefully, and communicate if you have difficulty with any exercises. Consistency is key! 5. Celebrate Small Wins Recovery is a journey, not a sprint. Take time to recognize every bit of progress, whether it’s increased flexibility, decreased pain, or regaining independence with daily tasks. Positive reinforcement keeps you motivated. How Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Supports Your Recovery At Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, we offer: Individualized post-surgical assessments to design your unique recovery plan Hands-on manual therapy, exercise prescription, and education to build strength and function Guidance for safe return to daily activities, work, and recreation Direct billing to many insurance providers for hassle-free service We work with you to overcome obstacles, adjust goals as needed, and provide ongoing encouragement. Our team uses the latest research and advanced techniques to ensure you receive the highest standard of care, right here in Winnipeg. Start Your New Year Strong: Book Your Post-Surgical Rehab Assessment Today As you set your intentions for the year ahead, prioritize your health and recovery. With the right support and clear, achievable goals, you can return to the activities and lifestyle you love. Pembina Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic is proud to be Winnipeg’s trusted partner in post-surgical rehabilitation. Don’t wait to take the first step toward a stronger, more active you. Call us today or book your assessment online at www.pembinaphysiotherapy.com . Let’s make 2026 the year you reclaim your strength, confidence, and independence—one milestone at a time.
Woman doing exercise with ball, assisted by therapist in a clinic.
December 23, 2025
Beat winter inactivity! Get home exercise tips from Pembina Physiotherapy’s expert therapists.
Woman adjusting shoulder of man with kinesiology tape; clinic.
December 17, 2025
Stay active and injury-free with winter sports safety advice from Pembina Physiotherapy’s expert team.
Woman helps an elderly woman with arm exercise, indoor setting.
December 9, 2025
Learn how manual therapy improves mobility, balance, and confidence for seniors during icy winter days.
Person in blue gloves inserting acupuncture needles into skin.
December 3, 2025
Understand both techniques used within physiotherapy care. See when each helps tight necks, backs and calves after skating or shoveling. Safe, evidence-informed.