Blog · Deborah Bateson · 20 September 2024
Rehabilitation
Pain after exercise: good or bad?
Delayed soreness versus a flare that means we overdid it — a physiotherapist’s rules of thumb.
Symptoms and what they can mean
A dull ache the next day in the muscle you worked can be DOMS. Sharp, swelling, or pain that climbs for 72 hours is a flare.
What we can do in clinic
We use a traffic-light idea. A bit of next-day ache can be acceptable. Limping to the car is not. I will adjust load, not lecture you for having a nervous system.
Red flags and when to see your GP
Chest pain during exercise is never “good pain”. Stop and get help.
This article is general information for people considering care at Health at Hart in Hartley Wintney. It is not a diagnosis, a prescription, or a promise of outcome. If you have sudden, severe or unexplained symptoms — including chest pain, unexplained weight loss, night pain, bowel or bladder changes, or a new neurological problem — seek urgent medical advice (NHS 111 or 999). UK osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council. Counsellors named here are BACP-registered where stated. Always check with your GP or insurer if you are unsure whether a treatment is appropriate for you.
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