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

Probably Normal

  • Mild tightness after hard rounds

  • Temporary soreness after lifting

  • Stiffness improving with movement

Red Flags 🚩

  • Pain shooting into leg/glute

  • Pain with coughing/sneezing

  • Repeated spasms or “going out”

  • Symptoms lasting >1–2 weeks

  • Pain during bridging/shooting

  • Morning stiffness that stays all day

Self-Assessments

Toe Touch

Do you feel pain when moving in & out of the position?

Is there pain or numbness tingling down the leg?

Do you feel instability?

Bridge Endurance Test

Do you have pain initiating or holding this position?

Is there pain or numbness tingling down the leg?

Do you feel instability?

Can you hold 30 seconds on each side without cramping?

Rotation Standing

Do you have pain turning to either side?

Does one side feel harder than the other?

Is there pain or numbness tingling down the leg?

Do you feel instability?

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 LOW BACK PAIN NORMAL? OR ACTUALLY MORE SERIOUS?