A(n) ____ is an injury or disorder of the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, and joints.
Introduction to Muscle, Bursa, and Tendon Disorders By Show , MD, MPH, Brown University Full review/revision Apr 2022 | Modified Sep 2022 VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION The muscles, bursae, tendons, and bones must be healthy and functioning correctly for the body to move normally. Muscles, which contract to produce movement, are connected to the bones by tendons. Bursae are flat sacs containing joint (synovial) fluid. They reduce friction in areas where skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments rub over bones. (See also Biology of the Musculoskeletal System Introduction to the Biology of the Musculoskeletal System The musculoskeletal system provides form, stability, and movement to the human body. It consists of the body's bones (which make up the skeleton), muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage... read more .) Often, muscles, bursae, and tendons are injured during sports activities Overview of Sports Injuries Sports injuries are common among athletes and other people who participate in sports. Certain injuries that are traditionally considered sports injuries can also occur in people who do not participate... read more . Injury, overuse, infection, and occasionally disease can temporarily or permanently damage these structures. Damage can cause pain, limit control over movement, and reduce the normal range of motion. Disorders of the muscles, bursae, and tendons include
Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia is characterized by poor sleep, fatigue, mental cloudiness, and widespread aching and stiffness in soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Poor sleep, stress, strains... read more , although covered here, is thought to be a central pain syndrome, not a disorder of muscles, bursae, or tendons. VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION A repetitive strain injury (RSI), sometimes referred to as repetitive stress injury, is a gradual buildup of damage to muscles, tendons, and nerves from repetitive motions. RSIs are common and may be caused by many different types of activities, including:
Some common RSIs are:
Keep reading to learn more about this type of injury. What are the symptoms of RSI?RSI frequently affects your:
Other areas of your body can also be affected. Symptoms include:
Symptoms may begin gradually and then become constant and more intense. Even with initial treatment, symptoms may limit your ability to perform your usual activities. What are causes and risk factors for RSI?RSI can occur when you do repetitive movements. Those movements can cause your muscles and tendons to become damaged over time. Some activities that can increase your risk for RSI are:
Previous injuries or conditions, such as a rotator cuff tear or an injury to your wrist, back, or shoulder, can also predispose you to RSI. Desk jobs are not the only occupations whose workers are at risk for RSI. Other occupations that involve repetitive movements and may increase your risk include:
How is RSI diagnosed?If you have even mild discomfort completing certain tasks on your job or at home, it’s a good idea to see your doctor to talk about RSI. Your doctor will ask you questions about your work and other activities to try to identify any repetitive movements you do. They’ll also ask about your work environment, such as whether you work at a computer or have an ergonomic work station. They’ll do a physical exam as well. During the exam, they’ll perform range of motion tests and check for tenderness, inflammation, reflexes, and strength in the affected area. Your doctor may also order magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound to assess tissue damage. An electromyography (EMG) may be ordered to check on nerve damage. For mild damage, your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist. If the damage is severe, they may also refer you to a specialist or surgeon. How is RSI treated?The initial treatment for RSI symptoms is conservative. This may include:
Your doctor and physical therapist can also suggest adjustments to your work station, such as readjusting your chair and desk if you work at a computer, or modifications to your movements and equipment to minimize muscle strain and stress. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. What’s the outlook for RSI?Your outlook with RSI depends on the severity of your symptoms and your general health. You may be able to use conservative measures to modify your work routine and minimize pain and damage. Or, you may have to stop certain tasks at work for a while to rest the affected area. If other measures don’t work, your doctor may recommend surgery for specific problems involving nerves and tendons. Tips for preventing RSIIf you sit at a desk, follow the traditional advice from parents and teachers: Sit up straight and don’t slouch! Good posture is the key to avoiding unnecessary stress on your muscles. This takes practice and mindfulness. There are also many exercises you can do to improve your posture.
Taking frequent breaks from your desk throughout the day is as important as having an ergonomic workstation.
Those may sound like little things, but mini breaks can make a big difference in preventing RSI. If your work is not at a desk, the same principles apply. Maintain good posture, figure out the least stressful positions for the repetitive tasks required, and take frequent mini breaks. If you have to stand a lot, use an antifatigue mat. Use extension poles for cleaning tools to avoid straining your arms, and lift heavy loads properly. If you use tools, take breaks throughout the day to stretch and flex your fingers and wrists. Most occupations have been studied in detail and have guidelines for reducing worker stress while doing specific tasks. The National Education Association, for example, has a handbook on RSI that provides tips for teachers, drivers, food workers, custodians, and others. What is considered a musculoskeletal injury?Any injury that affects the bones, muscles, ligaments, nerves, or tendons resulting in pain are considered musculoskeletal injuries. While pain may be widespread and affect the entire body, it is often localized in the hands and wrists due to their high use and exposure.
What is the cause of musculoskeletal Disorder?Musculoskeletal disorders
The most common cause of musculoskeletal pain is an injury to the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, or ligaments. Falls, sports injuries, and car accidents are just a few of the incidents that can lead to pain. More than 150 different musculoskeletal disorders exist.
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