Exercise, rest and diet all go hand in hand. We all pretty much know this but I remember doing something even after knowing all this, that I regret till this day.
I first injured my elbow doing too many pushups and then not going to a doctor after that. The pain persisted for several weeks before I went to the doctor. It took 3 years for the injury to heal completely and it still worries me that if I put too much strain, than it might come back.
I am really glad that you went to see somebody that can give you sound advice on your pain and soreness.