Repetitive Motion Disorders
Repetitive Motion Disorders Information
Synonym(s): Cumulative Trauma Disorders, Repetitive Stress Injuries, Overuse SyndromeTable of Contents (click to jump to sections) What are Repetitive Motion Disorders?
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done?
What are Repetitive Motion Disorders?
Repetitive motion disorders (RMDs) are a variety of muscular conditions that result from repeated motions performed in the course of normal work or other daily activities. RMDs may be caused by overexertion, incorrect posture, muscle fatigue, compression of nerves or tissue, too many uninterrupted repetitions of an activity or motion, or friction caused by an unnatural or awkward motion such as twisting the arm or wrist. Over time, these conditions can cause temporary or permanent damage to the soft tissues in the body?such as the muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments. RMDs can occur in the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck, back, hips, knees, feet, legs, and ankles, however, the hands and arms are most often affected. Generally, RMDs affect individuals who perform repetitive tasks such as assembly line work, meatpacking, sewing, playing musical instruments, and computer work. The disorders may also affect individuals who engage in activities such as carpentry, gardening, tennis, and lifting children. RMDs may include such conditions as carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, tendonitis, epicondylitis, ganglion cyst, tenosynovitis, and trigger finger. Symptoms of these disorders may include pain, tingling or numbness, visible swelling or redness of the affected area, and 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.Is there any treatment?
Treatment for RMDs usually includes reducing or stopping the motions that cause symptoms. Splints may relieve pressure on the muscles and nerves. Medication such as pain relievers, cortisone, and anti-inflammatory drugs may reduce pain and swelling. Physical therapy may relieve the soreness and pain in the muscles and joints. In rare cases, surgery may be required to relieve symptoms and prevent permanent damage. Other treatment options may include taking breaks to give the affected area time to rest, stretching and relaxation exercises, and applying ice to the affected area to help reduce pain and swelling. Many companies have developed ergonomic programs to help workers adjust their pace of work and office equipment to minimize problems. What is the prognosis?
The majority of individuals with RMDs recover completely and can avoid re-injury by changing the way they perform repetitive movements, the frequency with which they perform the movements, and the amount of time they rest between movements. Without treatment, RMDs may result in permanent injury and complete loss of function in the affected area. What research is being done?
Much of the on-going research on RMDs is aimed at prevention and rehabilitation. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) funds research on RMDs.
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