The Association for Repetitive Motion Syndromes says initial symptoms may include tingling, numbness, or pain in the affected area, and loss of flexibility or strength. Repetitive stress injuries may become progressively worse over time without treatment and may result in a complete loss of function in the affected area. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health says tens of thousands of injuries each year are caused be repetitive motions, including typing, repetitive use of tools, and repetitive motions such as turning or grasping. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, when muscles tense during any kind of repeated movement, blood flow becomes restricted. In addition, if the movement is repeated too often without breaks, the tendons surrounding the muscles can become inflamed.
Tendons are the tissues that connect the muscles to the bones.
When they become inflamed, they can start to press against nerves, which can lead to numbness and tingling. Discomfort, even pain, may also occur. Repetitive stress injuries can result from just about any activity that's repeated often enough, especially if the activity is done incorrectly. One common mistake when typing, for example, is to keep the wrists bent at an angle. This stresses the wrist.