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Patient Questions  /  Exercising with some pain

Starting Physical Therapy

Is It OK to Exercise If It Hurts a Little?

For many common aches, like back pain, arthritis and tendon pain, often yes. Mild discomfort that stays manageable, doesn't keep building during the exercise and settles by the next day is usually OK. Sharp pain, pain that keeps climbing, or pain that is worse the next morning means you should do less. Fresh injuries and recent surgery have different rules.

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Why some discomfort can be OK

Hurt doesn't always mean harm. When you start using a sore joint, tendon or back again, it is common to feel some discomfort. Tissues get stronger when they are gradually asked to do more, and waiting until there is no pain at all can mean waiting a long time while you get weaker.

A simple way to judge it

  • Probably OK: mild discomfort during exercise that settles soon after, or by the next day.
  • Hold steady: pain that is a bit stronger but still settles within a day. Keep going at the same level rather than adding more.
  • Back off: sharp pain, pain that keeps rising as you go, new swelling, or pain that is clearly worse the next morning. Do less next time.

Many therapists use a 0 to 10 pain scale and agree on a range with you. Your therapist can give you a number that fits your condition.

When not to push through

Right after an injury, after surgery, or with a broken bone, follow your doctor's or surgeon's limits. Stop and get advice if exercise brings on numbness, tingling, weakness or a joint giving way.

When to see a doctor

Stop exercising and get medical care right away if you have:

  • Chest pain or pressure, unusual shortness of breath, or feeling faint: call 911
  • A sudden pop or snap followed by weakness or swelling
  • New numbness, tingling or weakness in an arm or leg
  • A hot, red, swollen joint, or pain with fever
  • Calf pain, swelling or warmth, which needs to be checked for a blood clot

How physical therapy at ARI can help

A physical therapist can set the right starting level for your exercises, agree with you on how much discomfort is OK, and adjust the plan as you get stronger, so you keep making progress without overdoing it.

At ARI Physical Therapy in Bakersfield, every visit is one-on-one and in person with a licensed physical therapist, and our clinic director, Deepa Konnur, PT, MPT, OCS, is a board-certified Orthopedic Certified Specialist. We accept most private insurance plans and Medicare, and we have staff who speak Spanish and Hindi.

Read our full guide: Orthopedic rehab →

No referral needed to start. In California, you can see a physical therapist directly for up to 12 visits or 45 days, whichever comes first. Some insurance plans still require a referral for coverage; call us at (661) 282-8584 and we'll help you check.

Related questions

Ready to feel better?

Talk to a licensed physical therapist at ARI, one-on-one. Request an evaluation and we'll get back to you, usually within one business day.

Request an EvaluationCall (661) 282-8584

This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you have symptoms, a licensed clinician should evaluate you.

Clinically reviewed by Deepa Konnur, PT, MPT, OCS, board-certified Orthopedic Certified Specialist · Reviewed October 2026