When to See a Physiotherapist vs. Trying Self-Care:
Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore
Aches and pains are a normal part of life, and sometimes simple self-care like rest, ice, or gentle stretching is all you need. But there are times when it’s important to see a physiotherapist rather than toughing it out. Knowing the difference can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.
When self-care may be enough
You might try self-care strategies first if your pain:
1. Comes on after an unusual activity (like yard work or a long hike)
2. Improves within a few days with rest, stretching, or gentle movement
3.Doesn’t limit your ability to do daily activities
Red flags: when to seek professional help
Book a physiotherapy assessment if you experience:
1. Persistent pain that lasts more than a couple of weeks
2. Pain that worsens over time instead of improving
3. Difficulty moving or a noticeable loss of strength or range of motion
4. Recurring injuries in the same area
5.Numbness, tingling, or shooting pain down an arm or leg
6. Joint swelling that doesn’t go away with rest and ice
Benefits of seeing a physiotherapist
Physiotherapists don’t just treat injuries — they also help prevent them. With a thorough assessment, they can:
– Identify underlying movement patterns causing your pain
– Provide exercises to strengthen and support vulnerable areas
– Teach strategies to prevent future flare-ups
– Guide you safely back to work, sport, or hobbies
The takeaway
While self-care works in many cases, persistent or worsening pain shouldn’t be ignored. A physiotherapist can give you the tools, confidence, and treatment you need to recover fully and prevent the issue from coming back. If in doubt, it’s always better to get checked.