How a holistic, whole-body approach can address repetitive strain injuries
As the name suggests, repetitive strain injuries are caused by repeating the same motion or activity until it starts to cause physical pain. Any motion or movement, from typing on a computer at work to hitting a tennis racquet, can cause a repetitive strain injury if performed too often.
While repetitive strain injuries can put a halt to your daily routine, several methods can address your pain and restore proper functions. The osteopathic therapists at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery will work with you to find the right approach for your needs.
To set up your first appointment, give us a call at our Victoria BC, or Burnaby, BC clinic today.
What is a Repetitive Strain Injury?
A repetitive strain injury (RSI) is the result of gradual damage to the muscles, tendons, and joints. It is typically caused by improper technique or overuse.
RSIs are common in athletes and people with jobs that require small, repetitive movements (like hairdressers or landscapers). Some common RSI injuries include:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers caused by a pinched nerve in the wrist
Bursitis
- Inflammation of a bursa, which is a closed, fluid-filled sac that works as a cushion and reduces friction between tissues in certain joints of the body, such as the shoulder or knee
Tendinopathy
- Irritation, inflammation, or injury to the tendons that connect the muscles and bones
Symptoms of Repetitive Stress Injuries
RSI can occur in various parts of the body but frequently affects the upper extremities (wrist and hands, elbows, forearms, shoulders) and the hips and knees in the lower extremities. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:
- Mild to severe pain
- Throbbing
- Tenderness in the affected area
- Stiffness or tension in the muscles surrounding the painful area
- Inflammation
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
Symptoms usually begin gradually and then grow more constant and intense. Often, pain and stiffness will limit your ability to perform usual activities or participate in sports.
How Osteopathic Therapy Can Help
Osteopathic therapy is an effective, natural approach that can help you resolve symptoms of repetitive strain injury. Our therapists will work with you to create a customized treatment program that pulls from the following techniques:
Soft Tissue Therapy
- Soft tissue therapy typically involves addressing damaged, tense muscles, tendons, and ligaments with targeted, hands-on techniques. This improves the body’s movement while increasing blood flow and lymphatic drainage.
Joint Manipulations
- During joint manipulations, a practitioner moves your joints passively through their current range of motion to facilitate the restoration of mobility and alleviate pain or tension.
Exercise Programs
- We’ll provide prescribed movement that might help ease your pain and avoid future injuries. The goal is to identify faulty movement patterns or compensations leading to overuse-type pain and injuries. Our team will work with you to correct these impairments.
Ergonomic Advice
- Ergonomic advice includes postural corrections and other lifestyle changes that can help address the underlying causes of your RSI, facilitating your recovery and preventing future injury. These might include tips like adjusting a chair and desk and using properly-fitting equipment and tools.
Your first appointment at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery will include a comprehensive analysis. This is where we will ask you questions about your current condition and any present symptoms, as well as your medical history and lifestyle choices that could be contributing factors.
After assessing your symptoms and determining the root of your pain, your osteopathic therapist will design a treatment plan to help you overcome the challenges of your condition.
Ready to Book Your First Appointment?
If you’ve been struggling with pain, stiffness, or any other symptoms of RSI, our therapist can help you resolve your injury and manage your symptoms. Ready to find relief and get back to your everyday life? Contact us at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery in Victoria BC, and Burnaby, BC today.
