5 Things You Should Never Do in Physical Therapy
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Injury Prevention, Patient Education on June 21, 2025
Why Knowing the “Don’ts” Matters in Physical Therapy
When you’re healing from an injury, recovering after surgery, or managing chronic pain, physical therapy can be one of the most effective ways to restore strength and function. But there are also a few things not to do in physical therapy that can make a big difference in how successful your treatment will be.
At Reform Physical Therapy, we often remind patients that recovery isn’t just about showing up — it’s also about showing up the right way. Here are five key mistakes to avoid to get the most out of your sessions.
1. Don’t Push Through Sharp or Sudden Pain
While a little soreness can be expected during therapy, sharp, shooting, or severe pain is a red flag. Ignoring it can worsen your condition or cause a new injury.
If something doesn’t feel right, always let your therapist know. Physical therapy should challenge you, but it should never hurt in a way that feels dangerous or alarming. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) reinforces this in their guidance on pain vs. progress.
2. Don’t Skip Your Home Exercises
One of the most common things not to do in physical therapy is skipping your home program. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic work and speed up recovery.
Consistency is key — research from the National Institutes of Health shows that patients who complete their prescribed home exercises have better long-term outcomes. Even if it feels repetitive or simple, every stretch and movement has a purpose.
3. Don’t Compare Your Progress to Others
Healing is personal. Comparing yourself to someone else’s progress — even a friend with the same injury — can lead to frustration or discouragement.
Everyone’s body responds to treatment differently depending on age, fitness level, injury severity, and overall health. Trust your plan and stay consistent with your sessions. This is one of the most important but overlooked things not to do in physical therapy.
4. Don’t Rely Only on Passive Treatments
While modalities like ice, heat, and massage can feel good, they’re not meant to replace active rehab. The goal of physical therapy is to restore movement and build strength — and that happens when you actively participate.
Skipping the exercises and only showing up for passive treatment won’t lead to lasting change. Your recovery depends on what you put into it, both inside and outside the clinic.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Communication is everything in physical therapy. If you don’t understand an exercise, feel unsure about your diagnosis, or want to know what’s next in your plan, ask.
Your therapist is there to support you, and clear communication helps ensure your treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs. Remember: there are no bad questions when it comes to your health.
Final Thoughts: Stay Engaged and Avoid These Mistakes
Understanding the things not to do in physical therapy is just as important as knowing what to do. Avoiding these common mistakes can help you:
- Recover faster
- Stay motivated
- Prevent re-injury
- Get better long-term results
At Reform Physical Therapy, we’re committed to helping you move better, feel stronger, and heal smarter. If you’re unsure about your progress or want to talk through your treatment plan, we’re always here to help.
With 7 locations across Southern Maine-Book your appointment today — no referral needed in most cases.