When you have a sore back,,,,,,

I have been having terrible back and neck pain....I tried not working out for four days which is a lot for me and my back got worse.
I finally went to the gym and did the bike and elyptical for about an hour and then did some very light weights. I have to say my back loosened up and I feel much better and not so grouchy. Granted, my problem isn't fixed at this point. I do need PT but in the meantime, I say do light exericise and never just lay around. It makes the muscles tighter and more sore.