Overuse Injuries (repetitive strain, cumulative trauma disorders)

Overuse injuries are common in all walks of life. When tissue, muscles, and joints are overused or overworked injury can prevail.  This can be the result of overtraining, chronic bad posture, or performing repetitive motions. With time these structures start to slowly break down and begin to lose function until injury occurs. Eventually the tissues will be unable to respond properly to a normal daily activity or movement and suddenly will become injured like the straw that broke the camel’s back. When muscles are chronically overused or injured blood flow is reduced to the area and the tissues are robbed of their oxygen. The body then compensates for the lack of oxygen and replaces the muscle tissue which is oxygen dependent with tissue that doesn’t require oxygen or energy to function. This tissue is namely called Scar Tissue which creates adhesions and fibrosis in the tissues. This scar tissue binds up and ties down tissues that need to move freely. As scar tissue builds up, muscles become shorter and weaker, tension on tendons causes’ tendonitis, and nerves can become trapped. This can cause reduced range of motion, loss of strength, and pain and decreased function. Manual soft tissue systems including ART, FRR, Graston, Chiropractic care and rehabilitation are key components of the management process for overuse injuries.