Measurements should be taken to determine range of movement and strength at individual joints. The practitioner should discuss activities of daily living with you, as leisure activities and hobbies can be an important contributing factor in both the cause and the treatment of the injury. Another valuable component of the evaluation is an assessment of your work environment. Many medical professionals have some training in ergonomics or, if not, they should be able to refer you to someone who has. Modalities are available that can help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, decrease pain, and reeducate muscles.
Manual techniques are the most effective for releasing tight muscles and other soft tissues.
About the Author Jackie Ross is a practicing physical therapist of 27 years, and recently wrote and produced a video on preventing cumulative trauma disorders. She is an assistant professor and the academic clinical coordinator at a college in New York. Inc. All rights reserved. Provided by the CTD Resource Network, Inc .