Cameron Stewart, D.C.

Hey North Florida, Dr. Cam here!

I often think back to those years working on the farm up in Mead, Washington. The work was undeniably hard – lifting, hauling, mending, often repeating the same movements for hours. It built a certain kind of strength, but it also taught me early about how repetitive physical stress impacts the body. You learned quickly that doing the same motion incorrectly or for too long would lead to aches and pains in specific spots.

Fast forward to today. While fewer of us might be bucking hay bales, many people in North Florida are experiencing similar issues from different kinds of repetitive tasks. Think about:

• Hours spent typing and mousing at a computer.
• Working on an assembly line with repetitive motions.
• Scanning items all day as a cashier.
• Playing musical instruments.
• Even certain hobbies like knitting or extensive gardening.

These activities, while seemingly less strenuous than farm work, can lead to Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs). These injuries develop gradually from repeated micro-traumas to muscles, tendons, and nerves, often affecting the wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck, and back. Common examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), and chronic neck/shoulder tension.

My own history with chronic pain, stemming partly from cumulative physical stress, helps me recognize how these seemingly small, repeated movements can build up into significant discomfort and dysfunction.

How Chiropractic Care Address Repetitive Strain:

Ignoring the early signs of RSI often leads to worsening pain and functional limitations. Chiropractic care can help by:

1. Addressing Underlying Misalignments: Repetitive motions can cause or worsen subtle misalignments in the affected joints (wrist, elbow, shoulder) and often in the spine (especially neck and upper back) due to postural compensation. Adjustments help restore proper joint mechanics.
2. Reducing Nerve Interference: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome involve nerve compression. Chiropractic adjustments in the wrist and spine can help alleviate pressure on affected nerves.
3. Releasing Muscle Tension: Specific soft tissue techniques might be used alongside adjustments to release tight muscles that are contributing to the strain pattern.
4. Providing Ergonomic and Lifestyle Advice: Just like learning the right way to lift a hay bale, learning how to set up your workstation properly or modify your repetitive task can make a huge difference. We often provide guidance on ergonomics, posture, and beneficial stretches.

Whether your physical stress comes from a keyboard or a shovel, the principles are similar: proper biomechanics matter. Don’t ignore those persistent aches from repetitive tasks.

Let’s figure out the source of the strain and get you functioning comfortably again. Visit www.drcam.rocks to schedule an evaluation!

Take care,

Dr. Cam