WRIST/FINGER EXTENSOR STRAIN OR RSI
Overuse injuries of the wrist and forearm not only subject the tendons of the forearm to overload, but can also result in repetitive strain to the muscles which are responsible for extending the wrist and fingers.
This type of injury is often grouped together with other diagnoses, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and lateral epichondylitis, to describe repetitive strain injuries or cumulative trauma disorder that frequent the workplace.
The cumulative trauma arises from repetitive, fine hand movements which take place during activities such as typing. Long-term, this repetitive activity strains the muscles and tendons of the forearms, wrists and fingers, causing microscopic tears.
As a result of tearing, the muscles bleed and subsequently, the muscles will become adaptively shortened and contracted. Over time, further injury secondary to overuse will result in additional scarring and inflammation, which in turn may have a knock on affect to the associated tendons and neighbouring nerve supply, which may result in a gradual reduction in sensitivity in the hand and fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome) and pain.
One of the key elements in recovering from wrist and finger extensor strain is deciphering what activities have taken place that initiated symptoms in the first place. Often, there is a history of prolonged computer use with faulty technique which has perpetuated this injury. Therefore, improvements may be made by improving typing technique as well as workstation ergonomics to relieve some of the tension on the forearm musculature.
- Konijnenberg HS, de Wilde NS, Gerritsen AA, van Tulder MW, de Vet HC. Conservative treatment for repetitive strain injury. Scand J Work Environ Health. 2001 (Oct); 27(5): 299-310.
(The list of conditions given above and subsequent explanations are intended as a general guide and should not be considered a replacement for a full medical examination. Furthermore, we do not purport to treat all the conditions listed. Should you wish to discuss any of these conditions with our chiropractors. please do not hesitate to phone the clinic on 020 7374 2272 or email enquiries@body-motion.co.uk).
Our team of chiropractors and massage therapists are on hand to answer any questions you may have, so get in touch today via enquiries@body-motion.co.uk or on +44 (0)20 7374 2272.