Definition - What does Repetitive Motion Injury (RMI) mean?
A repetitive motion injury (RMI) is a type of musculoskeletal disorder caused by a recurrent action. These types of injuries occur when the same body part is used for repeated tasks. The harm resulting in an RMI is cumulative and the risk of suffering such an injury increases the more the same exertion is repeated.
A repetitive motion injury may also be called a repetitive stress injury. Other words used to describe this disorder include cumulative trauma disorder, repetitive strain injury, or repetitive stress syndrome.
SureHire explains Repetitive Motion Injury (RMI)
The musculoskeletal system consists of the muscles, bones, nerves, joints, tendons, ligaments, and other tissue of the body. Together these body parts support the body's motions and exertions. Injuries to any of these body parts are referred to as musculoskeletal injuries. Repetitive motion injuries (RMI) are one of the most common types of musculoskeletal injuries. These types of injuries can occur in any workplace setting and are particularly common among sports participants and athletes.
In contrast to an acute injury where a sudden strain or awkward position triggers immediate harm, repetitive motion injuries develop over time. Continual wear or strain on one part of the musculoskeletal system or improper recovery between actions causes tissue damage leading to an RMI. Inflammation, strained joints or ligaments, and pinched nerves are all characteristics of RMIs.
An RMI may affect any part of the musculoskeletal system, but some common RMIs include tendinitis and bursitis. More familiar names for RMIs include carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and trigger finger.
