Preventing Repetitive Motion Injury: Shoulder

Making changes in how you use your shoulder can lessen your chances of repetitive motion injuries (RMIs). Use your shoulder wisely by following the tips below.

Position Yourself Well

• Avoid raising your arms when working above shoulder level.

• Use a stool or stepladder when needed to prevent awkward reaching.

• Keep your work within easy reach. This helps you avoid stretching or twisting your arms and shoulders.

Vary Your Tasks

• Vary your on-the-job activity to help reduce the risk of RMIs.

• Give your shoulder enough time to rest and recover from stressful tasks.

• If one task causes you to feel pain, stop. Rest your shoulder. Go to another task if possible.

Limit Force

• Ask for help when you need  it.

• Limit activities that could strain shoulder muscles and tendons. This includes heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling. Get help when needed, or use dollies and wheelbarrows.

• Find the best tools for each activity. The best tool lets you use the least force.

• Rest before repeating a task that requires a lot of force. The more frequent the force, the greater the risk of RMIs.