Repetitive Stress Disorders

In order to be good at your job, sport, or any other activity, you usually need to spend a lot of time doing it. The problem is, this type of repetitive strain on your body's soft tissues – muscles, tendons, and ligaments – can cause damage and pain.

Repetitive stress disorders are extremely common, and no one is immune. Athletes are prone to these injuries, and the risk of this type of damage increases with age as the effects of strain on our bodies is cumulative.

Because the damage occurs with repetition over time, injuries tend to occur gradually and pain, inflammation, numbness, or other symptoms tend to be chronic.

Types of Repetitive Stress Disorders

Injuries that can occur from repetitive strain or overuse include:

Because nerve impingement is common among repetitive stress disorders, diagnosis sometimes involves nerve conduction studies and electromyography, which can identify how well your nerves and muscles are working. Diagnostic imaging may be necessary to rule out other causes of your symptoms, such as arthritis or fractures.

Repetitive Strain Injury Treatment

The good news is that surgery is rarely needed to treat repetitive strain injuries. In most cases, conservative methods such as rest, icing, anti-inflammatory medication, immobilization, and physical therapy can alleviate your symptoms.

The most important thing is to avoid re-injuring the area. If your injury was caused by incorrect body mechanics, it's imperative that you learn to perform a task or movement in a way that is efficient and does not cause your body harm.

Physical therapy not only helps alleviate your repetitive strain symptoms but it can help you avoid future problems, too. Ergonomic evaluations can assist you in making small changes in your environment to avoid repetitive stress disorders.

For Comprehensive Care of Repetitive Strain Injuries Call Our Orthopedic Doctors in Naples, FL

If you suspect repetitive strain may be to blame for your nagging pain and other symptoms, why not find out the extent of your injury and what treatment might be appropriate for you. Call the orthopedic professionals at the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, Florida, at (239) 261-2663. You can also request an appointment now.