Repetitive motion disorders

Repetitive motion disorders are a family of muscular conditions that result from repeated motions performed during the normal work or daily activities. The disorders are caused by too many uninterrupted repetitions of an activity or motion, unnatural or awkward motions such as twisting the arm or wrist, overexertion, incorrect posture, or muscle fatigue. Repetitive motion disorders include:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Bursitis
• Tendonitis
• Epicondylitis
• Ganglion cyst
• Tenosynovitis
• Trigger finger

Repetitive motion disorders occur most commonly in the hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders, but can also happen in the neck, back, hips, knees, feet, legs, and ankles. The disorders are characterized by:

• Pain
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Visible swelling or redness of the affected area
• Loss of flexibility and strength

For some individuals, there may be no visible sign of injury, although they may find it hard to perform relatively easy tasks. Over time, repetitive motion disorders can cause temporary or permanent damage to the soft tissues in the body—such as the muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments—and compression of nerves or tissue.

Generally, repetitive motion disorders affect individuals who perform repetitive tasks such as assembly line work, bartending, meatpacking, sewing, playing musical instruments, and computer work. The disorders may also affect individuals who engage in activities such as carpentry, gardening, and tennis.

Treatment includes reducing or stopping the motions that cause symptoms. Options include:

• Taking breaks to give the affected area time to rest
• Adopting stretching and relaxation exercises

Applying ice to the affected area and using medications such as pain relievers, cortisone, and anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce pain and swelling. Splints may be able to relieve pressure on the muscles and nerves. 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. Some employers have developed ergonomic programs to help workers adjust their pace of work and arrange office equipment to minimize problems.

Most individuals with repetitive motion disorders recover completely and can avoid re-injury by changing the way they perform repetitive movements, the frequency with which they perform them, and the amount of time they rest between movements. Without treatment, repetitive motion disorders may result in permanent injury and complete loss of function in the affected area.

How can I or my loved one help improve care for people with repetitive motion disorders?

Consider participating in a clinical trial so clinicians and scientists can learn more about repetitive motion disorders and related disorders. Clinical research uses human volunteers to help researchers learn more about a disorder and perhaps find better ways to safely detect, treat, or prevent disease.

All types of volunteers are needed—those who are healthy or may have an illness or disease—of all different ages, sexes, races, and ethnicities to ensure that study results apply to as many people as possible, and that treatments will be safe and effective for everyone who will use them.

For information about participating in clinical research visit NIH Clinical Research Trials and You. Learn about clinical trials currently looking for people with repetitive motion disorders at Clinicaltrials.gov.

Where can I find more information about repetitive motion disorders?

Information may be available from the following resources:

American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA)
Phone: 916-632-0922 or 800-533-3231

MedlinePlus

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
Phone: 301-496-8190 or 877-226-4267

Content source: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/repetitive-motion-disorders Accessed June 29, 2023.

The information in this document is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for personalized professional advice. Although the information was obtained from sources believed to be reliable, MedLink, its representatives, and the providers of the information do not guarantee its accuracy and disclaim responsibility for adverse consequences resulting from its use. For further information, consult a physician and the organization referred to herein.