How to Tell the Difference Between Normal Discomfort and Something You Shouldn’t Ignore

Probably Normal

  • General soreness after training that goes away within a day or 2

  • Mild muscular tightness

  • Temporary stiffness that improves when warm

Red Flags 🚩

  • Repeated rolling/sprains

  • Pain cutting directions

  • Loss of balance

  • Swelling after training

  • Hesitation shooting/takedowns

SIMPLE SELF-Assessments

Single Leg Balance

Can you balance for 30 seconds on each leg without dropping?

Do you have pain while weight bearing or holding this position?

Do you notice the gripping of your toes to stabilize?

Calf Raise Test

Can you do 20 reps with no stopping?

Do you feel muscles outside of your calves kicking in to help?

Do you feel pain going in & out of the position?

Knee-to-Wall Mobility

Do you notice a difference one side vs the other?

Do you feel a pinching sensation at any point in the range of motion?

Can you get your knee to the wall on either side?

You May Benefit From PT If…

  • If you had a hard time with these exercises

  • If you had any of the red flags from earlier

If this sounds like you, we’re here to help. Schedule a FREE 20-Min Discovery Call to chat & see if we are a good fit!

IS MY FOOT/ANKLE PAIN NORMAL? OR ACTUALLY MORE SERIOUS?