Don't Hold Back: Why Your Healthcare Provider Needs the Full Story

Whether it’s an injury that’s been bothering you, a symptom that feels minor, or something you’re embarrassed or nervous to mention, what you don’t share with your healthcare provider can hurt you in the long run.

It might sound surprising, but many people withhold information from their physical therapist, doctor, or other care providers. Sometimes it’s a conscious decision; other times it’s just a habit of downplaying what’s really going on.

So, why do people keep secrets when it comes to their health? And why is it such a big deal?

The Reasons People Stay Quiet

1. Fear of Judgment or Stigma

   Many people hesitate to share certain symptoms or experiences with healthcare providers out of fear they’ll be judged. There’s often a worry that what they’re dealing with - whether it’s physical, emotional, or behavioral - might be seen as strange or a sign of weakness. When people feel ashamed or potentially misunderstood, they may stay quiet - even when sharing could lead to meaningful help.

2. Avoiding Consequences

   Whether it’s the fear of missing out, worry about receiving a lecture from a provider, or simply not wanting to deal with the hassle of rehab, many people try to push through pain and hope it goes away on its own. But that delay often leads to more pain, more frustration, and a longer road to recovery in the end.

3. Trying to Be “Tough”

   Some people pride themselves on having a high pain tolerance or “just dealing with it.” But ignoring pain doesn't make a person stronger and can actually prolong recovery.

4. Not Realizing It’s Relevant

   People often think, “That old back injury isn’t related to my current knee pain,” or “That numbness only happens once in a while, so it’s probably nothing.” But from a clinician’s perspective, even small or seemingly unrelated details can paint a bigger picture of what’s going on in your body.

5. Lack of Trust

   When trust is missing, it’s hard to open up, especially about pain. If someone doesn’t feel comfortable with their provider, they may hold back important details or skip over things that feel too personal, even if they’re relevant. Sometimes, there’s worry that what they share won’t be taken seriously, or that their privacy won’t be protected. But without full honesty and a sense of safety, it’s tough to get to the root of the problem and fully recover.

Why It Matters

When you don’t share what you’re experiencing, you’re limiting your provider’s ability to give you the best care. Physical therapists, in particular, specialize in connecting the dots. Often times, the area that hurts isn’t where the problem started. But if your provider doesn't have the full story, they can’t uncover those connections.

Reporting an injury, symptom, or concern isn’t a sign of weakness - it’s a smart move that shows you’re invested in your long-term health. It’s also how you avoid turning a small issue into a chronic one.

Bottom Line

Your healthcare provider is there to help you, not judge you. The more open and honest you are, the better your treatment plan can be tailored to your needs and help you reach your goals safely and efficiently.

If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hide it. Speak up. You deserve care that addresses your whole experience, not just the parts that are easy to share.

Have you been pushing through something you haven’t talked about?

Whether it’s a lingering ache, a recurring injury, or something you’re just not sure is worth mentioning - let’s talk about it. Indepth Physical Therapy provides a safe space for patients to share, and we look deeper to uncover what’s really driving your pain. Let’s work together to find answers and real relief.

Click here to schedule your session today!