Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) are strains that may result from long-term repetitive motion or from continually working in an awkward position. Strains commonly occur in the wrists, arms, shoulders or back, affecting the body’s joints and surrounding muscles and tendons.
CTDs are said to be today’s fastest-growing occupational problem, affecting all types of employees, from computer operators to construction workers. Modern equipment, tools, and machinery have increased production capabilities in many ways. But in some cases, they have also increased the potential for strain injuries in people. These disorders not only cause great discomfort, they can also affect a person’s employability and personal lifestyle choices.
SUGGESTIONS FOR REDUCING YOUR EXPOSURE TO CTDs:
- Take a tip from athletes and do warm-up exercises before beginning physically demanding tasks—Plan ahead if you will be doing a job that is awkward—think of ways to make it easier.
- Rotate your work position to change how muscles are used during your work shift.
- Use the proper tools for the job to avoid awkward movements and the need for overexertion.
- Take a rest break when fatigue sets in. Just a few minutes can make a difference.
- Carefully stretch tired or overworked muscles to improve circulation and relieve tension.
- When appropriate, use antishock or antivibration gloves, back supports, wrist supports, or other personal protective equipment that helps prevent cumulative trauma.
- Always use proper lifting techniques. Back strain is one of the most common CTDs.
- When using hand tools, keep your wrists in a “neutral” position as opposed to repeatedly bending them up, down, or sideways during work tasks.
- Just because a coworker is not affected by a physically demanding task, don’t ignore messages your body sends you. Although humans share many physical characteristics, people are often different in terms of their physical strengths and weaknesses.
All muscle discomfort and fatigue is not a cumulative trauma disorder. Everyone experiences occasional aches and pains from both work and play—especially when you are not used to the activity. Nevertheless, awkward, repetitive work positions can result in long-term physical problems, so it’s up to you to avoid these in whatever ways you can. If the ache doesn’t go away within a day or two, follow the above suggestions.
If you have early symptoms of chronic discomfort, take note of it. The sooner a better tool or work position can be incorporated into your work activities, the sooner those symptoms can be controlled.
Listen to what your body tells you and learn how to avoid CTDs!