I have a question about PT. I have a herniated disk, and my ortho put me on a PT regimen. I am all in favor of it, but I want to ask everyone. Sometimes, some of the exercises really hurt (I don't THINK I am doing damage-they just hurt). Is this usual? Am I supposed to work through the pain, or do I use pain as a guide (i.e., stop if it hurts)?

What is everyone else's experience?

Good question, I started PT July 26th and wow I am hurting, but I was hurting before the PT as well (that is why I started), so I don't know if the pain now is from the PT. Looking at this board and seeing how surgery did not turn out well for many people scares me quite a bit. I've been dealing with low back pain for 10 years now, I am 30 years old now and thinking I am way too young for this. I tried PT 6 years ago with limited results but I am really trying to give it 100% this time. I'll see what happens in the weeks to come I guess.

If they only hurt while you are doing them you're okay. HOwever, according to every doctor who has ordered PT for me, if you hurt afterwards and the pain doesn't return to normal, then call the dr. and he should stop that particular exercise.

Carol

If it's sharp, nervy pain--the lightning bolt kind--that's time to stop, I think.

There is the old adage, no pain, no gain, but also, "pain is an indicator from your body to your brain that something is wrong". My doctor suggested using anti-inflammatory meds while going through PT.