Recognizing the difference between helpful and harmful pain is essential for maintaining safe activities and effective fitness routines.

What Is ‘Good’ Pain?

Mild soreness or achiness after a workout is normal, especially when trying new or more intense exercises. This type of discomfort is caused by tiny tears in your muscle fibers, which are part of your body’s natural process of getting stronger as it repairs. This soreness usually fades within a few days.

What Is Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)?

DOMS typically occurs 24 to 48 hours after exercise, especially following activities your body isn’t accustomed to. While remedies like ibuprofen or hot and cold packs may offer temporary relief, there’s no instant cure to shorten its duration. However, light activity can help ease soreness, and using a soothing muscle relief cream may further reduce discomfort, helping you return to your routine more quickly.

When Is Pain a Problem?
Sharp, intense, or ongoing pain during exercise can signal an injury, such as a strain or overuse issue. It’s crucial to stop and address these signs to avoid worsening the problem. Be especially cautious and consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Sudden, sharp pain.
• Difficulty moving or a restricted range of motion.
• Swelling, bruising, or deformity.
• Pain that doesn’t improve with rest or persists after several days. Etc.,

Listening to your body and distinguishing between normal soreness and potential injury is key to staying active and avoiding setbacks.

Src:: Is There Such a Thing as ‘Good Pain’ and When Should You Listen to Your Body? By Cleveland clinic   Oct. 9th 2020