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What Are Repetitive Motion Syndromes - RMS,
Repetitive Stress Injuries - RSI,
or Occupational Overuse Syndrome - OOS?

The term "repetitive motion syndromes" refers to a group of injuries that result from performing the same physical motion over and over again. Over time, this constant, unvarying motion may cause temporary or permanent damage to cartilage, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and muscles involved in producing the motion. A typical group of people affected by these injuries are those who injure their arms or wrists using keyboards (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome), though almost any part of the body is susceptible to repetitive motion injury.

Repetitive motion syndromes (sometimes referred to as "repetitive stress injuries" or RSI and Occupational Overuse Syndrome or OOS) can be quite painful and debilitating. Initial symptoms may include tingling, numbness, or pain in the affected area, and loss of flexibility or strength. Repetitive stress injuries may become progressively worse over time without treatment and may result in a complete loss of function in the affected area.

Because these conditions can dramatically affect one's ability to perform specific job duties, there are a number of employment-related issues associated with RMS. Those injured on the job may be eligible for such services as medical treatment, financial compensation, job accommodation, and rehabilitation, but often need help in receiving appropriate services. An additional area of concern is prevention of repetitive motion injuries through appropriate workplace engineering and ergonomic design.

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