06 Jul Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs)

Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs)

Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs), also called repetitive strain injuries or work-related musculoskeletal disorders, can develop when muscles, tendons, nerves, and joints are repeatedly exposed to stress without adequate recovery. These injuries commonly affect the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck, and back.

Unlike an injury caused by a single incident, CTDs often develop gradually. Repetitive motions, awkward postures, excessive force, vibration, contact stress, and prolonged static positions can all contribute to these disorders.

Common Risk Factors

Work activities that may increase the risk of cumulative trauma include:

• Repeating the same motion for extended periods.
• Working with wrists, arms, shoulders, or back in awkward positions.
• Frequent or heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying.
• Using excessive force when operating tools or handling materials.
• Working overhead or reaching excessively.
• Maintaining the same posture for long periods.
• Using vibrating hand or power tools.
• Working with poorly designed tools or workstations.
• Performing repetitive tasks without adequate recovery time.

Several risk factors occurring together can significantly increase the potential for injury.

Reducing Your Exposure

Good ergonomics and work practices can reduce stress on the body. Whenever possible:

• Plan the task before beginning and identify ways to reduce awkward movements or excessive force.
• Adjust the work height so tasks can be performed in a comfortable, neutral posture.
• Position materials and frequently used tools within easy reach.
• Use mechanical lifting or material-handling equipment when appropriate.
• Use the proper tool for the task and select tools that allow the wrist to remain in a neutral position.
• Rotate tasks when practical to vary the muscles and movements being used.
• Take appropriate recovery breaks during repetitive or physically demanding work.
• Change positions periodically rather than maintaining one posture for extended periods.
• Use proper lifting techniques and avoid twisting while lifting.
• Use two hands or obtain assistance with heavy, bulky, or awkward loads.
• Maintain tools and equipment so unnecessary force is not required.
• Reduce exposure to excessive vibration when possible.

Warm-up movements may help prepare the body for physically demanding work, but stretching or warming up does not replace proper ergonomic controls, equipment, or safe work practices.

Use Ergonomic Controls First

Whenever possible, reduce ergonomic hazards by changing the task, equipment, workstation, or work method rather than relying solely on personal protective equipment.

Examples include:

• Adjustable-height work surfaces.
• Lift-assist devices, carts, and material-handling equipment.
• Ergonomically designed hand tools.
• Tool balancers or supports.
• Anti-vibration equipment where appropriate.
• Improved workstation layout.
• Job rotation and appropriate work-rest scheduling.

Back belts, wrist supports, and similar devices should not be considered substitutes for proper lifting techniques or effective ergonomic controls.

Recognize the Early Warning Signs

CTDs often begin with mild symptoms that may become progressively worse if the exposure continues. Warning signs may include:

• Pain or aching.
• Tingling or numbness.
• Burning sensations.
• Swelling.
• Muscle weakness or fatigue.
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion.
• Loss of grip strength.
• Discomfort that continues or repeatedly returns after the task ends.

Do not assume persistent discomfort is simply part of the job.

Report Symptoms Early

Employees should promptly report persistent or recurring discomfort and ergonomic concerns to their supervisor. Early reporting allows the task and workstation to be evaluated before symptoms become more serious.

Workers should also report tools, equipment, or work practices that require excessive force, repetitive movement, or awkward positioning. Correcting the hazard early may prevent an injury from developing.

Remember

Cumulative trauma injuries usually develop over time, but they can have long-lasting consequences. Pay attention to how you perform repetitive and physically demanding tasks. Use good body positioning, appropriate tools and equipment, and available mechanical assistance.

Listen to your body—persistent pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or discomfort should not be ignored.