It’s Wednesday afternoon and you’re sitting at your computer, staring at the inbox you cleared out just this morning. Yet the number of *URGENT* emails has climbed up again. You’ve almost finished polishing up your presentation for tomorrow and your wrists are burning. Your hands lay almost lifeless on the keyboard, because you can’t fathom the thought of forcing the tiny movements it takes to stroke the keys.
If this sounds like you, then you are one of many who suffer from the effects of repetitive movements, also known as repetitive strain injury. Yours may not be from the office, however, if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from the effects of repetitive movements.
The most common areas affected are the hands, wrists, elbows, hips, and knees, however the back, feet, legs, and ankles are also prone to this condition. As these may be signs of conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, and tendinitis, it’s good to talk to your doctor about any chronic symptoms.
In the meantime, check out these great ways to help prevent and reduce the pain associated with repetitive movements.
1. Take a break
Unless you are able to stop the motion completely, and if it’s part of your job that’s not likely, you need to make sure you are at least able to take breaks during the day.
During these breaks, as well as before starting the activity and after you are done, make sure you stretch the area affected. Taking short breaks, as little as 15-30 seconds, to do a stretch will do wonders and you will notice a decrease in pain level.
2. Grab some ice
As with most kinds of injuries, using ice to calm the pain and reduce swelling can be effective for temporary relief. This is best done soon after stopping the activity or as soon as you get home.
3. Medicate only as needed
Anti-inflammatories will help reduce the internal swelling and provide some relief. Remember, however, that medication should not be your only recourse. Eventually your body will become used to the medication and you will need more of it to get relief. Also, ignoring the cause of your pain will just ensure more pain and repeat your medication cycle.
4. Give natural solutions a shot
If you haven’t yet, try the natural route. Increase your intake of vitamins and minerals that will help reduce inflammation and pain. Great sources are foods with Vitamin B6 (meat, fish, nuts, whole grains, bananas, and so on), omega-3 fatty acids, and spices such as turmeric and ginger.
You can also use the help of essential oils, topically or aromatically, such as peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus, and frankincense to help with pain from repetitive movements.
5. Slide on your sleeves
Protect yourself daily with CopperJoint copper compression sleeves. Wherever your ailment lies, CopperJoint has compression clothing that can help. Compression clothing supports the muscles and joints, helps reduce inflammation and further injury, promotes ideal blood flow, and is safe to wear all day. Plus, the real copper ion infused blend provides the added benefit of copper, which has been reported to help energize the healing process.
Healing from the strain of repetitive movements does not happen overnight and the injuries can return if proper measures are not taken. The best way to care for your injury is to use all the tools outlined and repeat them often, whether you currently feel the pain or not. Prevention is best, continual care a must. Take action today to conquer your pain. If you don’t yet have CopperJoint’s compression clothing in your arsenal, order some now!
