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Notes:
RSD -- dystrophy is a later stage of the disease. A chronic pain disorder affecting the sympathetic nervous system. Can arise if RSI is not treated properly. Pain leads to more pain, causing the person to avoid using the affected part, and atrophy increases the pain. This creates a vicious cycle. Often mistaken for thoracic outlet syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff syndrome, or cubital tunnel syndrome. Surgery for these can make RSD worse. RSD must be diagnosed and treated within six months or it is likely to become permanent. Your physician must be skilled at making this diagnosis in order to catch it in time. RSD sufferers usually need psychotherapy to learn to cope with the excruciating and long-lasting pain.
Focal dystonia -- involuntary cramping of hand from misfired signals from the brain. Can be terrifying, and progressively worsens without intervention. Serious condition that needs to be treated early. No cure yet, but serial injections of botulinum toxin and technique retraining can help. Holding a stylus or pen too tightly can cause it. Learn to hold the pen lightly, and move it from the shoulder joint.
Osteoarthritis -- not a true RSI, but compounds the problems. By age 40 most people have some stage. Morning stiffness, pain that is worsened by exercise, diminished range of motion, and cracking or grating sensations. Exercise is the best way to prevent it from worsening; aspirin and NSAIDs can help the pain.
Fibromyalgia -- pain in “trigger points”. Poor sleep. Treated with anti-depressants. Not an RSI but mimics RSI symptoms.
Dupuytren’s disease -- begins with thickening of the palm or a nodule that first appears on the fascia attached to the tendon. Leads to contracture of finger (usu. ring) towards thumb. Not an RSI, but can be aggravated by typing. Surgery is indicated; nonoperative therapies are considered ineffectual.
