Preventing and Managing Overuse Injuries in the Shoulder, Elbow, and Wrist

Overworking your body, especially repetitive motions, can lead to a variety of issues in the shoulder, elbow, and wrist. These are often referred to as overuse injuries or repetitive strain injuries (RSIs).

Common Issues

Here are some common problems that can arise from overuse:

Shoulder

Rotator cuff tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder.

Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) in the shoulder.

Impingement syndrome: When the rotator cuff tendons become pinched between the bones of the shoulder.

Elbow

Tennis elbow: Pain on the outside of the elbow.

Golfer's elbow: Pain on the inside of the elbow.

Ulnar nerve entrapment: Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow.

Wrist

Carpal tunnel syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist.

Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the wrist.

Symptoms

These conditions often cause:

·         Pain

·         Stiffness

·         Swelling

·         Weakness

·         Numbness

·         Tingling

Prevention

To prevent these issues, it's crucial to:

Take breaks: Regular short breaks from repetitive tasks can help prevent overuse.

Good posture: Maintaining proper posture while working can reduce strain on your joints.

Ergonomics: Ensure your workspace is set up correctly to minimize stress on your body.

Strength training: Building strength in the muscles supporting your joints can help prevent injuries.

Warm-up and cool-down: Joint rotations in the mornings to warm up and to wake the body. Stretching after activities can help prevent injuries.

Remember: Early intervention is key to managing these conditions effectively.

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