Keep in mind that we're all different, and the EXACT causes will be different, even if the general cause is the same. Decades back I had a problem that manifested as a hip joint issue (even to where specialists suggest hip surgery). Eventually it was correctly diagnosed as an effect of sciatica caused in turn by spinal stenosis (confirmed by X-rays).

While there was an option for a surgical solution, the surgeon felt I could beat it with physical therapy, and management. part of his advice was the usual, no lifting heavy loads, rest, etc + the usual exercises to improve flexibility, and relieve local pressure.

The program worked, but when I had to reported that rest wasn't helping, and I usually felt better after hard physical work doing things like lifting and tossing boxes. The surgeon didn't blink, and said that what works trumps any of his expertise, so we made adjustments. It's now down to a science, and I know how to manage the problem very effectively.

Ironically, after we solved the original sciatica issue, I started suffering from other somewhat related issues like piriformis syndrome, which I'm finding tougher to manage effectively.

My point isn't to say you'll have the same experience as me, but show you how it can vary, and that the canned advice from the doc may not be exactly right for you. So, it's about dialog, observing what works, and open conversation, as you negotiate between what the doc and your own body are saying.