What I think is most important is to avoid being bedridden or afraid to moved just because of something you see on an x-ray or a MRI. In the past, doctors would tell patients with back problems to rest and avoid too much physical activity. The studies are now showing that being bedridden makes it far worst. Staying inactive for too longer weakens our muscles & bones and prevents us from going back to our regular routine earlier.
It is true that pain in the beginning serves as guideline to let you know what you should do and what you should not do. It is important to be active but not to the point where it is painful. This is especially true for chronic pain where the priority is not to avoid pain at all cost, but rather be able to accomplish more with the same amount of pain.