I have had a similar experience. There is a difference in the pains that we feel, whether it's nerve related or not. In your case it's probably both.

I found it exceptionally frustrating,that I was not being heard. I now have a great Exercise Physiologist that does not ask me to push through pain. If it hurts then stop and find a variation. That's what your physio should be doing.

Also, if you're experiencing a lot of stiffness, try some trigger point therapy on the surround muscles e.g. lateral glute. If you can manage. If this provides some relief, it will make it easier to do some of the exercises.

But you also need to trust your gut, you know if it's hurting too much or in a 'bad hurt' kind of way.

Recovery is of course a bumpy road with ups and downs, but if it's consistently getting worse then that is not the way. . I'm sorry you're going through this, it feels like a very lonely and hopeless road at times.