Cumulative Trauma Disorders - CTDs

• Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) are commonly the result of repetitive motion or overexertion and are now the leading cause of work injuries. However these injuries are not limited to the workplace. These include injuries to the shoulder, wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome) and the low back.

• Any number of muscles and tendons can contribute to the improper movement and coordination of joints and be involved in cumulative trauma disorders. A history and exam with specific manual muscle testing generally can identify these disorders fairly quickly. Imaging is not generally necessary.

• The common thread between these disorders is the repetitive motion. If left untreated these can become chronic recurrent sources of pain and discomfort.

• Rest, ice and the proper rehabilitation program and possible modification of home or work activities can control these types of Cumulative Trauma Disorders.