WHAT IS REPETITIVE STRESS INJURY

A hard day’s work can result in strain or injury, but many are unaware of the impact caused by repeated movements. Activities ranging from typing and clicking to assembly line work can require sustained, repetitive movements. If you're experiencing aches and pains that are not associated with an inflammatory condition such as arthritis, you could have a repetitive stress injury. 

Causes and Risks

Unlike most injuries that occur from a single incident, repetitive stress injuries are caused by doing the same movement for an extended period of time. This can cause strain to muscles, joints, and tendons over time, causing irritation and injury. Risk factors include work-environments that involve typing, assembly line work, or similar repetitive tasks.

Symptoms

Because this injury develops from completing the same activity over and over, symptoms can appear gradually and worsen over time. If you have a repetitive stress injury, you’ll likely experience throbbing, tension, and pain in the joints or muscles you are using. You can also experience numbness or tingling in the affected area. These symptoms may temporarily improve if you stop the motion.

If you work in a field that requires repeated movements and you experience ongoing pain, you might have a repetitive stress injury. For more information, contact the experts at Coastal Pain & Neurology Centers.