Tis the season for repetitive motion injuries
No, it is not winter anymore. It is the season when the sun shines more, the snow is gone, the work in the garden beckons, outdoor sports and activities intensify. Even if you have been working out at the gym all winter, repetitive motion injuries can limit your activities and enjoyment.
Often old injuries or ones sustained in the winter, such as a fall, may flare up if they were untreated even if they seemed to have gone away. The increased activity and positions of stress, such as leaning far over in the garden, twisting and pulling can cause repetitive motion injuries. These are also caused by repeated movements, postures held for long periods of time and awkward positions. Repetitive motions can cause microscopic tears in the tissue with pain, swelling, stiffness and sometimes tingling or numbness if pressure is put on sensitive nerves.
Tendonitis of wrist, elbow, shoulder are common, but repetitive stress is also felt in the hands, back, neck and legs. The "itis" refers to inflammation. Standard treatment is rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medication. Also the microscopic tears may heal, but become tight due to scarring. Re-injury occurs if the cause is not addressed. Often the symptoms will return and in the worst case situation become chronic - some requiring surgery.
Because these are soft tissue injuries and cause myofascial (connective tissue) restriction, they often do not show up on testing. Also if left untreated, other parts of the body compensate and become overworked, which sets them up for injury as well. The most important thing is to pay attention to your body. Warm up before activities and take breaks at least every half hour. Use the proper tools for the job. Change positions and change tasks if you can, to use different muscles. Drink water to keep hydrated. If you have pain during an activity - stop. Assess it and do not force through pain. You may need to rest the injured area, use ice or a topical preparation or take an anti-inflammatory. However, if the symptoms persist or seem severe be sure to follow up.
From a therapy point of view, the approach would be to assess the tissue tightness, posture, pain, movement, swelling, any tingling or numbness and look at your activities. Treatment is focused to first release what is tight and get you out of pain. Myofascial release is especially effective for these types of injuries. Re-education regarding your activity, including tools and movement patterns, can determine changes to make that reduce the risk of injury. A home program of stretches, strengthening and self-treatment techniques round out the program to help you meet your goals of having an active and pain free summer!
Virginia Taft, OTR/L, ATP, is a licensed occupational therapist, with advanced training in assistive technology and manual therapy. She has been practicing in North Idaho for more than 25 years and is owner of Coeur d'Alene Hand Therapy & Healing Center. Her clinic employs physical, occupational, massage therapists who specialize in hands-on, whole body treatment and advanced myofascial release.
Treatment is provided for hand and repetitive motion injuries (such as back pain, tendonitis, carpal tunnel and back, neck, arm pain) ergonomics and other conditions such as fibromyalgia, scar release and breast cancer recovery. She enjoys teaching, writing and community involvement.
She can be reached at (208) 664-2901.
FREE CONSULTATION available.