Kentucky Injury Prevention
and Research Center Publications

Repetitive Strain Injuries in Youth

Kidd, Pamela Stinson, Ph.D., ARNP-C, CEN
McCoy, Carrie, RN, Ph.D., CEN
Steenbergen, Lorena, RN, BSN

The U.S. adolescent labor population has greatly increased due to changing labor needs, immigration and economic factors, such as single parent homes, increased mobility, and greater desire to purchase goods (Bayer, 1993; Kidd, Townley, Cole, McKnight, & Piercy, 1997; Institute of Medicine, 1999). Youth employed in fast-food service, long-term care facilities, and agricultural industries often perform the types of tasks that can result in repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). The maturing musculoskeletal system of youth, poor physical fitness, and their participation in physically rigorous sports may signifiicantly increase their risk for these injuries.

The clinician's early detection of youth at risk is a crucial step in preventing RSIs. Nurse practitioners (NPs) can identify youth at risk for work- or sport-related bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), epicondylitis, tendonitis, neck strains, and, most commonly, back strains, before the damage results in permanent disability (Gerrard, 1993; Husting, et. al., 1997; Parker, Carle, French & Martin, 1994).

Keywords: repetitive strain injuries/youth/occupational health/sports injuries

Comments to Mark Schneider, Last Modified: June 13, 2001 by JP
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