A common question from some of my patients is should we continue if the physical therapy hurts?

One of the most common concerns people have when undergoing rehabilitation is, Should I continue physical therapy if it hurts? While some discomfort can be a normal part of the recovery process, especially when working through injuries, it’s essential to distinguish between acceptable soreness and pain that could signal a problem. I will explore when it’s okay to experience discomfort during physical therapy, when you should be concerned, and how to approach your therapist if you’re feeling pain.

So Why Does Physical Therapy Hurt?

First, it’s important to understand why physical therapy hurts at times. Physical therapy is designed to restore function, improve mobility, and strengthen weakened muscles and joints. These exercises often target areas of the body that are healing from an injury or surgery, or that have been inactive for a period of time. As a result, it’s not uncommon to experience some level of discomfort as you work to rebuild strength and flexibility.

Common Reasons for Discomfort in Physical Therapy:

Muscle Soreness: Just like after a workout, your muscles may feel sore after a physical therapy session. This is because they are being worked and challenged, which is a normal part of strengthening.
Stiffness: When muscles or joints have been immobilized or inactive due to injury, they can become stiff. Physical therapy helps to restore range of motion, but this can cause discomfort as your body adapts.
Scar Tissue: If you’re recovering from surgery or an injury, scar tissue can develop in the affected area. Physical therapy helps break down this scar tissue, which can sometimes be painful but is necessary for improving mobility.

When Is Pain in Physical Therapy Normal?

Feeling some discomfort during physical therapy is generally considered normal, especially as your muscles adjust to new movements. Here are some signs that the pain you’re experiencing may be a normal part of the recovery process:

1. Post-Session Soreness

Just like with regular exercise, you may feel soreness after a physical therapy session. This is typically delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), which occurs 24 to 48 hours after activity and is a natural response to working muscles that haven’t been used in a while.

2. Mild Discomfort During Stretches

When working on flexibility and range of motion, you might feel mild discomfort, especially if your muscles are tight or your joints are stiff. This discomfort should be manageable and should not persist long after the session.

3. Temporary Pain Increase

Sometimes, physical therapy exercises may cause a temporary increase in pain as your body adjusts to new movements or challenges. This pain should lessen over time as your muscles grow stronger and more flexible.

When to Be Concerned About Pain in Physical Therapy

While mild discomfort is normal, sharp or intense pain during physical therapy is a red flag that should not be ignored. If physical therapy hurts beyond a manageable level, it’s crucial to speak with your therapist to avoid causing further damage. Here are some signs that the pain you’re experiencing may be problematic:

1. Sharp or Shooting Pain

If you feel sharp, stabbing, or shooting pain during an exercise, stop immediately and let your therapist know. This type of pain could indicate that something is wrong, such as a nerve issue or exacerbation of your injury.

2. Pain That Doesn’t Go Away

While soreness after therapy is normal, pain that persists for more than a few days or worsens with each session is a concern. If you’re experiencing prolonged pain that doesn’t improve, it’s essential to discuss this with your therapist.

3. Swelling or Inflammation

If your muscles or joints become swollen, inflamed, or bruised after physical therapy, it may indicate that you’re pushing your body too hard. In these cases, the intensity or type of exercises may need to be adjusted.

4. Numbness or Tingling

Numbness or tingling sensations, especially if they persist, could signal nerve irritation or another issue. These symptoms should be reported to your therapist immediately so they can evaluate the situation.

What to Do If Physical Therapy Hurts

If you’re experiencing significant pain during your physical therapy sessions, the first step is to communicate openly with your therapist. Physical therapists are trained to modify exercises and adjust treatments based on your feedback, so don’t hesitate to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

Here’s What You Can Do:

Speak Up: Let your therapist know exactly what type of pain you’re feeling, where it’s located, and when it occurs. This will help them determine whether the pain is normal or if the exercise needs to be modified.
Ask for Adjustments: Sometimes, simply changing the intensity or technique of an exercise can make a big difference. Your therapist can adjust the movement to better suit your current capabilities and comfort level.
Take Rest Days: If you’re consistently feeling pain after therapy, it might be helpful to incorporate more rest days into your routine. This gives your muscles time to recover and rebuild strength without overworking them.
Consider Other Treatments: In some cases, your therapist may recommend additional treatments to help manage pain, such as heat or cold therapy, massage, or electrical stimulation.

Why It’s Important to Continue Physical Therapy (Even if It Hurts)

While it’s crucial to avoid pushing through sharp or intense pain, mild discomfort should not be a reason to stop physical therapy altogether. In fact, staying consistent with your therapy is key to seeing long-term benefits and achieving full recovery. Here’s why:

1. Improved Mobility and Function

Physical therapy helps restore movement and flexibility, which is essential for regaining independence in your daily activities. Without consistent therapy, you may experience stiffness, loss of function, and even prolonged pain.

2. Increased Strength

The exercises you perform in physical therapy are designed to strengthen weakened muscles and support the injured area. Over time, this strength reduces pain and prevents further injury.

3. Pain Reduction Over Time

Many people find that, although physical therapy hurts at first, their overall pain levels decrease as they continue with their sessions. Strengthening the muscles and improving movement patterns often leads to long-term pain relief.

4. Injury Prevention

Physical therapy not only helps you recover from existing injuries but also teaches you how to move in ways that prevent future injuries. By improving posture, balance, and muscle function, you can reduce the likelihood of recurring issues.

When to Pause or Stop Physical Therapy

While it’s important to stay consistent, there are times when it’s necessary to pause or stop physical therapy. If the pain becomes unbearable or if your condition is worsening despite modifications, it may be time to reassess your treatment plan. Always consult your therapist or healthcare provider if you feel that continuing therapy is causing more harm than good.

Why Choose Synergy Therapy for Physical Therapy?

At Synergy Therapy, we understand that physical therapy hurts at times, but we’re committed to helping you recover safely and effectively. Our experienced therapists work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs while minimizing discomfort. We believe in open communication, and we’re here to make adjustments whenever necessary to ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible.

To learn more or to book a session, visit our Google My Business page or get booked in with Synergy Therapy today.

Conclusion

So, should you continue physical therapy if it hurts? If the pain is mild and manageable, it’s often a normal part of the recovery process. However, sharp, intense, or prolonged pain is a signal that you need to communicate with your therapist and possibly adjust your treatment plan. By working closely with your therapist and following a personalized plan, you can recover safely, reduce pain, and regain mobility. For expert guidance and tailored care, book your session with Synergy Therapy today.