Hurt vs Harm: Should Pain Stop you from Exercising?

Feeling hurt, like soreness or mild discomfort, doesn’t mean you’re doing harm. Often, it’s just your body being protective, not damaged.

Hurt vs. Harm: What’s the Difference?

Not all pain means you need to stop! Feeling hurt is when you experience discomfort or pain, think of the soreness you might feel after a challenging workout, or the ache from moving a stiff joint. This type of pain can feel scary, especially if you’re recovering from a previous injury or have dealt with chronic joint or back pain. But it’s important to remember: hurt doesn’t always mean you’re doing harm.

Harm implies actual damage or injury to your tissues, like muscle tears or joint injuries such as sprains. However, many times, the pain we feel during movement is more about sensitivity than real damage. The body can become protective and interpret safe, helpful movements as a threat, making the pain worse.

Why Movement and Exercise Matter in Recovery

Staying active is critical in reducing pain and restoring function. Remember the old adage “Movement is medicine”. Well there's a lot of truth and wisdom to that expression! When done gradually and mindfully, movement helps desensitize pain pathways, strengthens your muscles, and improves mobility and stability around vulnerable joints. By regularly moving, you’re training your body to recognize safe motion and rebuild trust in your physical abilities.

Reframe Your Mindset About Pain

It’s natural to fear pain, especially if you've experienced injury before. But learning to interpret pain as a signal and not necessarily a stop sign is key. Consider these guidelines:

Choose "Green Light" Movements: Opt for exercises and stretches that cause mild discomfort but no sharp or intense pain. Think of it as a “stretch” for your pain tolerance, where slight discomfort is okay but you’re not pushing to extremes.
Progress Gradually: Increase intensity or weight slowly. This allows your body time to adapt, so you can strengthen and move without triggering excessive sensitivity.
Listen to Patterns, Not Moments: If the pain decreases or stabilizes as you move, it’s likely safe to keep going. If the pain intensifies or lingers long after you’re done, that might be a cue to modify or ask a professional for exercises tailored to your specific needs.
Focus on Form and Stay Safe: Good form is protective. Moving mindfully helps you stay safe, supporting recovery rather than risking harm. Unsure about your technique? Consult a professional you can guide you to ensure you’re optimizing the benefits.

Embrace Your Strength with Move Well Health!

Pain is a signal, not a stop sign. At Move Well Health, I believe that movement is key to reclaiming your strength and mobility. Learning the difference between hurt and harm empowers you to take control, reframe your fear, and rebuild confidence in your body.

Ready to start your journey toward a stronger, pain-free life? Connect with Move Well Health today, and let’s take those first steps together. Embrace your strength—your body is ready!

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