Repetitive Motion Injuries
Repeating a particular motion constantly, whether it's using a computer mouse or throwing a baseball in practice, can cause damage to tendons, muscles, and joints. The injury can be a combination of an inflammation in a joint or tendon and damage to body tissues.
Self-Care
-
Limit or stop the motion.
-
Alternate application of heat and cold on the affected area.
-
Take pain medication.
-
Get physical therapy and exercise.
-
Sit, stand, or move in ways that don't cause stress on affected joints and tendons.
| Decision Guide for Repetitive Motion Injuries |
|
Symptoms/Signs
|
Action
|
|
Muscle or joint aches after exertion
|
 Use self-care
|
|
Joint pain without fever or swelling
|
Use self-care
|
|
Joint pain with fever and sudden, significant swelling or severe pain
|
 Call provider's office
|
|
Sudden pain with no apparent cause
|
Call provider's office
|
|
Constant pain that affects your activities
|
 See provider
|
|
Pain with fatigue, insomnia
|
See provider
|
Publication Source:
Well Advised, Second Edition, Text copyright © 2003 Park Nicollet Institute
Online Editor:
Rademaekers, Ed
Online Medical Reviewer:
Godsey, Cynthia M.S., M.S.N., APRN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Lambert, J.G. M.D.
Date Last Modified:
10/9/2003