What Are Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Certain job tasks or activities of daily living require many of us to perform repeated movements of the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck, and back. Over time, these movements can cause damage to various parts of the body. These injuries, which are among the most common injuries in the United States, are referred to as repetitive motion disorders (RMDs).

What Are RMDs?

As the name suggests, repetitive motion disorders are a group of musculoskeletal conditions caused by movements that are performed repeatedly. RMDs can be caused by:

• Overexertion

• Incorrect posture

• Friction caused by an unnatural or awkward motion such as twisting the arm or wrist

RMDs may cause symptoms because of muscle fatigue, local inflammation and swelling, or compression of nerve tissue. Examples of RMDs include:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome: When the narrowed tunnel of bones and ligaments in the wrist pinches the nerves in the fingers and the muscles at the base of the thumb.

• Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) that lies between a tendon and skin, or between a tendon and bone.

• Tendonitis: Inflammation, irritation, and swelling of a tendon.

• Epicondylitis (tennis elbow): Inflammation, soreness, or pain on the outside of the upper arm near the elbow.

• Ganglion cyst: When tissues surrounding certain joints, usually the wrist, become inflamed and swell up with fluid.

• Tenosynovitis: When the lining of the sheath that surrounds a tendon becomes inflamed.

• Trigger finger: A painful or painless clicking or snapping or locking of a finger.

It is important to note, however, that all of the above conditions may have other causes and occur in the absence of repetitive motion.

Who Is at Risk for RMDs?

Anyone who engages in repetitive activities can get a RMD. Certain professions and activities increase the risk, including:

• Assembly line work

• Meatpacking

• Sewing

• Playing musical instruments

• Computer work/typing (or in the case of children, playing video or computer games)

• Carpentry

• Gardening

• Sports such as tennis or golf

• Lifting children

What Are Symptoms of RMDs?

Symptoms of these disorders may include one or more of the following:

• Pain or stiffness in the fingers, hands, wrists, forearms, elbows, shoulders, neck or back

• Tingling or numbness in the hands or fingers

• Visible swelling or redness of the affected area

• Loss of flexibility and strength.

• For some individuals, there may be no visible sign of injury although they may find it hard to perform easy tasks

Injuries caused be repetitive movements usually develop slowly over a period of time. Initially the symptoms may be mild and come and go. However, if left untreated, the symptoms can become very painful and even debilitating.

Treatment for RMDs

The first step in treating a RMD is to reduce or stop the motions that are causing the symptoms. Other treatments may include:

• Splints to relieve pressure on the muscles and nerves.

• Medications such as pain relievers, cortisone, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.

• Physical therapy to relieve soreness and pain in muscles and joints and to strengthen muscles to help prevent future injuries.

• Ice therapy to reduce pain and swelling.

• Surgery, in rare cases, may be necessary to help relieve symptoms and prevent permanent damage.

Prevention

RMDs can be prevented. Use these important tips to reduce your risk for a repetitive motion injury:

• Take a break. Avoid overuse of muscles by giving your body a chance to rest.

• Exercise. Stretching and relaxation exercise can help build strength and increase mobility and range of motion and prevent future injury.

• Check your posture. Correct posture during any type of activity helps align the elbow, wrist, hands and spine during repetitive motions.

• Use proper technique. Avoid overreaching, stretching and twisting.

• Use protective equipment and have a properly designed workstation. Make sure your office or work equipment is at the proper height and distance and allows you to perform your work safely and comfortably.

Keep Yourself Healthy

If you work in a job or regularly participate in activities that include repetitive movements, keep your body safe by avoiding RMDs. Allowing time for rest, regular exercise, and proper techniques are all keys to avoiding injury. See your doctor if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.