| The term "overuse" injury
refers to the effects of repeated, minor trauma to the joint. This trauma
may result from sports or from daily activities, such as the repetitive
stress injury that affects the wrists of people who use computers in their
work. The injury occurs gradually, and symptoms may not interfere with
the performance of the activity at first. When symptoms do appear, they
are usually noticed within 24 hours of performing the activity that is
producing trauma to the joint. These symptoms may include a dull ache,
a specific type of discomfort when the joint is moved a certain way, such
as a burning sensation or shooting pain, and sometimes pain when the affected
area is touched or pressure is applied. Pain may be accompanied by swelling.
Resting the joint and using
first aid measures, such as elevation and ice therapy, may bring relief.
However, you should consult an orthopedic specialist if you cannot change
your activities to rest the joint or if symptoms persist. In some cases,
your activities can be modified to lessen the trauma on the affected joint,
or special equipment may be used to provide additional support to the joint.
The orthopedic specialist can help prevent a recurrent injury by prescribing
exercises to improve the strength and mobility of the affected joint and
its supporting structures.
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