Everyone is susceptible to repetitive strain injury. It can happen from regular wear and tear with daily activities like reaching or squatting or it can happen to athletes who participate in tennis, golf, and any other sport that requires repetitive motion. While many repetitive strain injuries can be healed with proper care, there may be times when surgery is needed to fix the issue.
Learn when to reach out to Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay for repetitive strain injury treatment and surgery near you.
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most recognized RSIs. It occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed at the wrist, leading to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. Early-stage carpal tunnel often improves with wrist splints, activity modification, and corticosteroid injections. However, if symptoms worsen or persist despite conservative care, carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the nerve and prevent permanent damage.
2. Tendonitis and Tendinosis
Tendonitis (inflammation) and tendinosis (degeneration) can affect tendons throughout the body, especially in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and knees. Repetitive use injuries like rotator cuff tendonitis or tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) often respond to rest, physical therapy, and biologic treatments. When tendons are severely torn, degenerated, or do not heal properly, surgical repair or debridement may be necessary to restore full strength and range of motion.
3. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It causes pain and swelling, particularly when forming a fist, grasping, or twisting the wrist. Non-surgical options like splinting and anti-inflammatory medications are usually effective early on. However, in stubborn cases where function is significantly impaired, surgical release of the affected tendon sheath can provide lasting relief.
4. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome involves compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, leading to numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers. Like carpal tunnel syndrome, mild symptoms may improve with non-surgical management. In more advanced cases with muscle wasting or persistent weakness, ulnar nerve decompression or transposition surgery can help prevent further nerve damage.
When Should You Consider Surgery for an RSI?
Surgery for repetitive strain injuries is typically considered only after conservative treatments have failed. Persistent pain, loss of strength, numbness, and reduced function are strong indicators that surgical evaluation may be necessary. Early intervention for severe cases can prevent long-term disability and improve your overall quality of life.
Receive Treatment For Repetitive Strain Injuries at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay
Are you experiencing symptoms associated with repetitive strain injury? Reach out to Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay to schedule a consultation for repetitive strain treatment options and surgery near you. We will begin with a custom treatment plan to find the best solution for you.
