Repetitive Strain Injury

Question 1

What is repetitive strain injury?

Answer 1

Soft tissue irritation, microtrauma and strain from repetitive activities

Question 2

What is affected by repetitive strain injury?

Answer 2

Muscles
Tendons
Nerves

Question 3

What characteristics of activity can increase risk of repetitive strain injury?

Answer 3

Small repetitive activities

Vibration

Awkward positions

Question 4

How does repetitive strain injury present?

Answer 4

History of repetitive activity often due to work

Symptoms

-Pain
-Aching
-Weakness
-Cramping
-Numbness

Question 5

How does repetitive strain injury present on examination?

Answer 5

Tender to palpation
Mild swelling

Question 6

How is repetitive strain injury diagnosed?

Answer 6

Clinically based on history and examinations

No investigations

Question 7

What investigations can used for with repetitive strain injury?

Answer 7

X-rays
Look for osteoarthritis

Ultrasound
Synovitis in rheumatoid arthritis or rotator cuff tears

Blood tests
Inflammatory markers and rheumatoid factors for rheumatoid

Question 8

How is repetitive strain injury managed?

Answer 8

Rest
Ice
Compression
Elevation

Question 9

What further management may be used alongside RICE?

Answer 9

Analgesia
Physiotherapy
Steroid injections (only specific scenarios)