When you have to repeat similar
movements over extended periods of time, such as when operating equipment
at work, stress is applied to certain joints. Often, this can lead to pressure
on the joints causing inflammation, pain, and decreased function in the
extremity. Your hands are your primary work tools, and they are highly
susceptible to repetitive trauma syndrome. The most common of these syndromes
is carpal tunnel syndrome.
Some of the factors identified
as being associated with the likelihood of developing a repetitive stress
injury include:
Repetitive, forceful, or prolonged
exertions of the hands
Rapid hand and wrist movement
Frequent or heavy lifting, pushing,
pulling, or carrying heavy objects
Vibration
Intensity, frequency, and duration
of the exposure to these conditions, coupled with your capacity to deal
with the conditions, and personal factors such as age and physical condition,
also have significant influence of the likelihood of developing repetitive
trauma syndrome.
