Repetitive strain injuries come in many shapes and sizes from shoulder pain and tennis elbow, to the widely reviled carpal tunnel syndrome. The common thread in these conditions is an imbalance between muscles/tendons that impede the joints ability to function properly. This irritation of the muscles, tendons and underlying soft-tissues can cause a variety of Repetitive Strain Injuries that may affect every joint in the body, but most prominently in the upper extremity.

Our basic anatomy sets us up for these kinds of maladies. The muscles in the shoulder, arm and forearm pass through very vulnerable joints. When these joints are out of balance due to certain muscle groups surrounding the joint being stronger than their antagonist, Repetitive Strain Injuries occur. Certain conditions such as arthritis and diabetes can exacerbate our pre-existing vulnerability and create greater risk for a repetitive strain injury.

At other times, the lifestyles we choose and our workplace conditions are to blame. Heavy lifting, long hours at a steering wheel, or endless shifts at the computer keyboard can all foster repetitive strain injury. Simple modifications to the daily routine often are enough to prevent against repetitive strain injury or to treat it once it has emerged.

These modifications can take many forms, from braces and splints to cooling compresses and gel packs. Perhaps the most useful and lasting modification is to incorporate exercises into the daily routine. A carefully crafted training system that promotes muscular balance in the forearm can go a long way toward reducing the pain and impairment associated with repetitive strain injury. Contact www-repetitive-strain.com to obtain more information on how a simple exercise system can keep you symptom free.