Yes, back off if you hurt too much. Your PT should begin each time with the therapist asking how you did after your last session. That massage is more important after your range of motion. Mine lasted anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes at a time and was delightful, not terribly painfull at all. After the whole thing even at 4 weeks I felt better every session. I hope you get a new PT with more experience. ginnie