Overuse syndrome (injury from repetitive activity)

Description

Pain of the muscle or nerve due to frequent use of certain muscle or its frequent contraction (heavy contractions). Examples for this disease are: carpal tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, tendon inflammation,temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome and certain sprains and strains. This disorder is also called cumulative trauma or injury from repetitive activity.

Symptoms

Pain, skin tingling, sensitivity, stiffness, reduced range of mobility.

Overview

Anamnesis and physical examination will be performed. In majority of the cases these syndroms can be identified witout special examinations.

Tests

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-rays.

Specialists

General Practice, Internal Medicine, Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Physical medicine and rehabilitation

Therapy

Treatment involves identifying the activity which has led to appearance of the symptoms and its modifying or reducing. Pain may be reduced with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (buprofen, naproxen) or paracetamol. Injections, immobilization, braces or physical therapy may be recommended.