Why You’re Still Hurting Even After PT

Many clients come in saying: “I did all the PT exercises, but I’m still hurting.” Physical therapy is incredibly valuable — it strengthens weak areas, improves mobility, and retrains movement. But sometimes, despite consistent effort, pain lingers.

The Problem: Protocol vs. Reality


Physical therapy is often guided by structured protocols that target specific injuries or conditions. While effective, these protocols may not always account for:

  • Fascia restrictions that limit how muscles and joints can move

  • Nervous system stress that keeps tissues braced and guarded

  • Compensation patterns that arise when one area is overworking for another

Why Fascia Matters Here


Fascia is continuous — meaning a restriction in one spot (like the hip) can impact movement in another (like the shoulder). If fascia isn’t released, PT exercises may feel difficult, painful, or ineffective.

Example:
A client rehabbing a knee injury might do quad and glute strengthening. But if their IT band fascia is locked down, the knee won’t track properly — no matter how strong the muscles get.

When fascia restrictions are released and the nervous system feels safe, PT exercises “land” better. Movement feels smoother, posture integrates, and progress sticks.

Benefits of Combining Approaches:

  • Faster recovery times

  • More ease with exercises

  • Relief from chronic compensation pain

  • Longer-lasting results

💡 Trivia: Fascia has 10x more sensory nerve endings than muscle — meaning it’s a major player in how we feel pain and movement.

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Massage vs. Fascia Release | Why Nervous System Reset Creates Lasting Relief

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Myofascial Cupping for Lateral Foot Pain