Acupuncture and Repetitive Motion Injury
If you are reading this, chances are you suspect you may have a repetitive motion injury (RMI). THe most common RMI is carpal tunnel syndrome. This disorder is called a syndrome because of the varied symptoms a person can experience.
How it happens
Over time, a person who has done the same movements over and over again at a job or as part of a hobby will experience some sort of discomfort.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms vary from a change in the temperature at he finger tips, to numbness, tingling, pain, reduced range of motion and even loss of use. Denial is often a strong indicator that the patient has an RMI.
How to prevent RMI
- The most obvious thing to do is to avoid repetitive movements. Try to vary activities throughout the day so that you give your muscles a break. If you can't vary activities, at least remember to take breaks.
- Warm up before working and stretch after work if you can.
- Try to work in an environment that is warm enough not to cause you to become stiff, which can lead to strain.
- Set up your work area so that it is ergonomically correct (user friendly) for you.
- If you use a computer all day, use the rule of 90s. Try to set with hips, knees, and elbows at 90 degrees.
- Adjust the monitor so that you can look at it without slouching or tilting your head.
- Avoid holding the phone with your shoulder. When possible, get a headset.
- Exercise is an important stress reliever which helps to relax tension stored in the muscles.
Repetitive Motion Syndromes
Repetitive Motion Injury (RMI)
Tissue damage caused by repeated trauma, usually associated with writing, painting, typing, sign language interpreting, or the use of vibrating tools or hand tools. RMI is also known as:- Cumulative Trauma Syndrome
- Repetitive Strain Injury
- Overuse Syndrome
- Repetitive Motion Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
Pain or numbness that affects some part of the median nerve distribution of the hand (on the palm side of the thumb, the index finger, the radial [thumb side] half of the ring finger and the radial [thumb side] half of the palm) and may radiate into the arm.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)
A symptom complex caused by conditions in which nerves or vessels are compressed in the neck or axilla (underarm). Causes pain or numbness to the arm and fingers on the affected side. Often misdiagnosed as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Lateral Humeral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
Inflammation of the outer side of the elbow joint and surrounding tissues.
Medial Humeral Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)
Inflammation of the inside (body side) of the elbow joint and surrounding tissues.
Tendonitis
Inflammation of a tendon, the connective tissues which serve as attachments between muscles and bones.Acupuncture and RMI
The natural flow of Qi is a delicate balance, and it can be affected by ergonomic and overuse injuries as well as many other factors including diet, environment, illness and traumas from sports or other injuries.
When there is no Qi circulation to an area, there is often a change in sensation, such as pain or numbness. There may also be a change in temperature at or below the site of injury. This type of injury is sluggish and stagnant in nature.
Acupuncture sets the stage for the body to repair itself and maintain its own health by restoring circulation of Qi to the injured area. Improved circulation aids the body in the repair and healing of injured, stagnant tissues, restoring health and balance.
Before you consider surgery
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is effective for the prevention of disease. Many problems can be corrected before the use of drugs or surgery is required.
