SORENESS VS. INJURY

HOW TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE

written by Maddie Leininger, PT, DPT

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Are you getting out hiking, trail running, and enjoying the outdoors this spring? As activity levels increase, it’s normal to notice soreness, stiffness, or occasional aches as your body adapts to new or increased activity. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell the difference between normal activity-related soreness and symptoms that may benefit from a little more attention. Here’s a general breakdown:

Normal Muscle Soreness

• Muscle soreness after activity is common and usually:

• Shows up a few hours to 48 hours later

• Feels dull, achy, tight, or stiff

• Affects larger muscle groups

• Improves as you move

• Resolves within a couple of days

Symptoms That May Need More Attention

• Sharp or pinpoint pain

• Symptoms you can easily reproduce

• One-sided or very specific discomfort

• Symptoms that change how you move

• Pain that lingers or repeatedly returns

In general, some soreness with activity is normal and expected. Your body is constantly adapting to the demands you place on it. The key is paying attention to whether symptoms gradually improve or continue becoming more sensitive or limiting over time.

Unsure of the difference? At Range Physical Therapy & Wellness, we offer free 15-minute consultations with a Doctor of Physical Therapy to talk through your symptoms and help guide you toward staying active and doing the things you love.

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