HEALTH Notes
■ Over time, repetitive movements such as typing, doing certain sports, or frequently using power tools, can cause aching and pain – most commonly felt in the shoulders, wrists, elbows and hands.
“The simplest thing is to deal with the aches and stiffness, by alternating between cold and hot,” says osteopath Phyllis Woodfine (phylliswoodfineosteopath.com). “Wrap ice or a heat pack in a tea towel and apply for two minutes, then swap. Repeating this two or three times to get the circulation going. Massage around the area.
“In future, avoid keeping your body in a fixed position. For instance, don’t use a wrist rest while you type on a computer. If using a tablet or mobile phone, take regular breaks to stretch.
“Stay hydrated, as the more hydrated you are, the more quickly you will recover.”
Take ibuprofen to relieve swelling and pain. In severe cases, a GP may prescribe steroid injections, or refer for surgery.