In an acute phase, (and frankly, that is when most people think about doing something), then exercise may well be just the wrong thing to do, and may in fact aggravate the situation. You would be advised to seek the advice of your osteopath to determine the exact cause of pain and appropriate course of treatment before proceeding with an exercise regime.

As things settle down, howver, then exercise may be helpful with the rehabilitaion of muscles particualrly where there is residual stiffness.

Below is a link to an exercise program provided by the British Osteopathic Association, which might be of help.

Exercises for a Healthy Spine

Exercises should be carried out carefully and if doing a particualr exercise causes pain, then you should stop. Your osteopath will advise you as to what exercises may be helpful to you.