Overuse and Repetitive Motion Injuries: Care Instructions

Overview

When you use one part of your body in the same way over and over again, it can put too much stress on your joints, muscles, or other tissues. This can cause an overuse injury. You may have pain, swelling, or tenderness in that part of your body.

There are many different kinds of overuse injuries. You could get one from doing a sport or activity. Or you could get one from something you do at work. For example, you may get elbow pain from frequent lifting. Or you may get wrist pain from typing all day.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• Put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time to ease pain. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• If your doctor gave you a splint, use it exactly as directed.
• Ask your doctor about physical or occupational therapy. These can help you learn how to do tasks differently.
• Return to your usual activities slowly.
• Rest the area that hurts. You may need to stop or reduce the activity that causes your symptoms. Then you can return to it slowly.