Repetitive strain injury .2. Diagnostic and treatment tips on six common problems

Repetitive strain injury is caused by recurrent overuse, resulting in microtrauma to tissues. Local pain and tenderness, weakness, inflammation and limited function are common findings. Some of the strain injuries seen most often are carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, shoulder impingement syndrome, tennis elbow, thoracic outlet syndrome, and myofascial pain disorders. Often, treatment can be started at the initial visit, after systemic disorders have been ruled out. A vital step is elimination of aggravating factors, such as improper posture, inadequate attention to ergonomic factors at work, and contributory habits (eg, jaw or hand clenching). Use of simple joint-protection measures can alleviate much of the discomfort. Appropriate self-help strategies used at home may restore flexibility and strength with a minimum of medical intervention, but pain relief must be achieved before patients can be expected to follow through with rehabilitation efforts. Use of ice packs, massage, NSAIDs, or topical pain-relief agents is often helpful. Prompt, temporary pain relief can also be achieved with injection of a local anesthetic-corticosteroid mixture. Persistent disability should prompt consideration of psychosocial factors. In addition, fraudulent claims of disability do occur. Although physicians should make every effort to support legitimate claims of work-related injury, they should also be aware of the possibility that activities outside of work (eg, sports participation, accidental injuries) may be contributing factors.