A normal part of any exercises regime is to feel the odd ache or pain when working out, especially when we like to push ourselves and step up to the next level (or weight). Whether it be at the gym or running on the track, most love the burning ache of knowing a good workout is being accomplished.

But when is the pain considered bad pain? And when should we stop instead of pushing through it?

Generally, most cardio and endurance trainers will feel the odd lactic acid burn in the muscles or the nagging ‘stitch’ in our abdominal region. Most weight based trainers will feel some sort of delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) after a good workout at the gym. All these types of aches and pains are considered normal and part of undertaking strenuous exercises, and generally resolve in a short time frame.

Pain that is sharp, nagging and doesn’t seem to settle or get better is a cause of concern. This acute onset of pain due to injury or illness is definitely considered bad pain. If your questioning your symptoms and if the pain is affecting your movement, you should stop the exercise immediately to prevent the risk of further injuring yourself.

A good way to prevent any sort of injury and the bad pain associated with it is a proper warm up and stretch regime, especially pre and post exercise. Slowly increasing the load of any exercise regime and making sure you’re preforming the correct technique will also go a long way in reducing the chance of injury while also increasing the benefits of a workout.

If you have any concerns of a possible injury, or just want to get the best advice going forward, speak to one of our Osteopaths at Melbourne Osteohealth today!