Seven Physiotherapy Myths Worth Retiring
1 February 2026 · 9 min read · Reviewed by Dr. Atharva Narvekar (PT)
No pain no gain, cracking joints causes arthritis, and other beliefs the evidence does not support.
Myths about pain and rest
‘No pain, no gain’ is not a rehabilitation rule. Some discomfort may be acceptable, but severe pain is not proof of an effective session. Dosage should match the condition and response.
Complete rest is rarely the fastest route for common musculoskeletal problems. Relative rest means reducing the provoking load while maintaining safe movement and fitness.
- Myth: treatment must hurt
- Myth: rest until all pain disappears
- Myth: joints must never make noise
Myths about scans and structure
Scans can be essential when serious injury is suspected, but common findings such as disc changes or tendon wear also appear in people without pain. A report must be interpreted alongside symptoms and examination.
Joint cracking has not been shown to cause arthritis. Noise without pain, swelling or loss of function is commonly harmless.
Myths about exercise and age
Core training is more than crunches: breathing, trunk endurance, coordination and whole-body strength all matter. There is also no age at which strength stops responding to training.
Physiotherapy is useful before and after surgery, for injury prevention, long-term conditions, mobility, balance and return to valued activity.
This article is for general education and does not replace an individual examination or medical diagnosis.
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