Does physiotherapy hurt?
Physiotherapy should not be unbearable. You may feel some tenderness during hands-on work or some muscle soreness after new exercises, but you should be able to tell your physiotherapist what is too much. Treatment is adjusted to what you can tolerate.
Many people worry that treatment will be painful before their first visit. Most describe it as a mix of pressure, stretching and effort, not something to be endured.
What you might feel
- Mild pressure or tenderness during hands-on techniques
- A stretch or pulling sensation during mobility work
- Muscle soreness a day or so after new exercises
- Fatigue after a strong session
What is not okay
Sharp, stabbing or worsening pain that you cannot manage is a signal to stop and tell us. Pain is not a measure of progress.
Speaking up
You are always in control. Tell your physiotherapist if something is too uncomfortable, if you are nervous or if you want to go slower.
After a session
Mild soreness for a day or so is common, especially after the first visits. If pain is much worse and lasts longer, let us know.
Next step
If worry about pain is keeping you from booking, call us and we can answer questions. Then book when you are ready.
Related: what should I expect at my first physiotherapy appointment?, how many physiotherapy sessions will I need? and can I keep training while I am injured?