What Are Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs)?

CTDs are the result of repeated stress over a body part. Well known disorders tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome are just 2 of the many types of CTDs. In fact, CTDs can occur at many joints of your body where repetitive, forceful, or awkward motions occur. CTDs develop slowly over time, therefore initially the symptoms appear mild. They soon can become very painful and even crippling if you don't modify your work habits and seek medical attention. 

CTDs can be broken down into 3 types:

1.  Inflammation disorders (the most common type of CTD). Tendon inflammation disorders are caused by excessive repetition, overexertion, overuse, and tasks that require your shoulders to be elevated. Common symptoms include aching at the joint and tenderness to touch. Types include but are not limited to the following:

Tendonitis, an inflammation that occurs when the muscle is repeatedly tensed. Over time the tendon may fray or tear. 

Stenosing Tenosynovitis, the tendon sheath is irritated due to extreme repetition. Fluid builds in the wrists and causes pain and swelling. 

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis, inflammation of the four tendons that make up the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff includes four tendons that fuse over the shoulder joint to provide stability and mobility for the shoulder. 

Bursitis, inflammation of a bursa (padlike sac found in connective tissue that is filled with fluid that reduce friction) which is located between bony prominences and muscle or tendon. 

2.  Nerve Entrapment/Compression Disorder. Repetitive motion, poor/awkward positioning of the hand and arm, or a prolonged clenched fist all contribute to nerve disorder. Symptoms include pain, numbness, and tingling of the hands. 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (the most well-known nerve disorder). The flexor tendons and median nerve of the hand pass through eight bones in the wrist wrapped by a ligament that forms a rigid, very small tunnel. The bursa surrounds the tendons to allow lubrication and to reduce wear and tear. These tendons slide through the tunnel as the fingers bend and straighten. Repetitive motions cause the area to become inflamed. The result is a thickening of the tissue surrounding the tendons, causing the median nerve to be pinched.

3.  Neurovascular Disorder. Vascular tissue refers to blood vessels. Certain activities or postures can slow circulation by compressing the nerves and blood vessels, leading to numbness and pain in the affected part. 

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, pressure of the nerve or vessels in the neck or shoulder area.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact your physician. Most cumulative trauma disorders are treatable if you identify the symptoms before they become chronic.