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If you are experiencing symptoms of Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD), also known as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) that last more than 2-3 days, it is important that you seek appropriate treatment. Hopefully you will have already treated the early warning signs by following our suggestions for self-care. |
Because of the complexity and subtle differences between disorders, physicians don't always diagnose CTD correctly or easily. The most knowledgeable medical specialists for CTD are generally considered to be physiatrists, or physical medicine specialists. These doctors do not provide treatment, however. You will need "physical therapy" to facilitate the healing of your soft tissues. By releasing chronic muscle tension, therapy will restore function by improving blood flow. Healing will only begin once the muscle tension has diminished. "Physical therapy" can be provided by physical and occupational therapists (PT/OT), chiropractors (DC) with training in CTD treatment, and certified massage therapists (CMT). These practitioners specialize in soft tissue conditions.
The Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics website, www.aoec.org is a good resource for locating clinics throughout the U.S. which usually are well-trained in the diagnosis and treatment of repetitive strain injuries.
The resources we have listed below are practitioners in the Bay Area who have been recommended to us from satisfied clients. We neither endorse nor recommend these particular practitioners. You are encouraged to make personal decisions based on your own needs and research.
If you live outside of the Bay Area and do not have a primary physician, contact your medical provider to find a physiatrist in your area. To see a specialist in the HMO system, you need to request a referral from your primary care physician. Physical and Occupational Therapists need a referral from a medical doctor (MD) to provide treatment. To check the qualifications of a doctor or chiropractor, go to www.choicetrust.com. This website allows you to check the qualifications and practices of any doctor or chiropractor in the United States.
If you would prefer to see an alternative therapist (i.e., any provider other than a M.D.), you will need to do a little research. A good website to consult if you are considering alternative therapy is www.healthy.net and click on the link to alternative medicine, then the link to the Alternative Resource Center.
The most effective form of treatment for CTD involves deep tissue work to break up fibrous tissue and lengthen tense muscles. Posture retraining, upper body conditioning, and spinal alignment are also successful.
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How do you decide which type of practitioner is appropriate for your problem?
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Practitioners by Location: San Francisco East Bay North Bay San Mateo County Area Palo Alto Area South Bay The Coast Los Angeles area Maryland |
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