Introduction to OOS (Occupational Overuse Syndrome)
July 1992OCCUPATIONAL Overuse Syndrome, formerly known as RSI, is a serious medical condition affecting thousands of New Zealanders. In the year ending 31 March 1989, ACC paid out $16.5 million in compensation to 6,200 sufferers (ACC study, Dunedin office, 1992). This out of date statistic does not include Social Welfare beneficiaries with the condition, those who left a particular job on medical advice, or women injured at work in the home. The figure does not show how many people have the Acute (recoverable) version of the condition, and those who are at the Chronic stage (disabling).
It appears that many more women get the Chronic type. It is now becoming recognised that because women play a central domestic and family role, they are less likely to be able to take time out while the condition is still reversable.
ACUTE OOS (sometimes called Stage 1) is characterised by pain, discomfort and perhaps peculiar sensations, but confined to one particular spot. It only occurs when carrying out one activity. It usually goes away during breaks or overnight. But it starts up again as soon as you return to the task that caused it.
There are many theories but basically one body part is simply being overused. Carpal Tunnel Syrndrorne and tenosynovitis are types of OOS. There is, as yet, no professional agreement on diagnosis (what exactly is wrong) and prognosis (the long-term outcome) for all varieties of OOS. What's agreed is that prevention is better than "cure", which cannot be guaranteed.
If you think you have Acute OOS, report to your GP immediately for advice and an ACC certificate, just in case you need to go on to compensation at a later date. Ideally this should be done within two weeks of first experiencing symptoms. The Acute stage is only recoverable if there is early detection, appropriate medical treatment, and good self- management. Also report to your company's Occupational Health Nurse, alert your union rep and/or contact union head office. Under the new ACC regulations, employers are motivated to maintain good health and safety practices. They can contact the Employer's Federation for information that will help both you and the company.
If your response is appropriate, ie. both immediate and sensibly approached, the condition will subside, and adaptations will minimise the chances of a recurrence. The Prevention Desk at your local ACC office can also supply leaflets on request. Another source of information is the Workplace Health and Safety Union. Obtain as much detailed information as they can provide on five areas: redesign your work place; reassess your work methods; reorganise your work load; do light exercise between movements; and relax your muscles.
WARNING: There is a grey area between the Acute and Chronic stages (sometimes called Stage 2), in which you may suffer Chronic symptoms, but followed by a reasonable level of recovery. However, this is a critical stage at which relapse is possible, so that the action taken is critical. It must also be maintained. Keep a diary.
CHRONIC OOS (also called Stage 3) is characterised by a multiplication of symptoms. You experience constant pain of more than one variety, plus chronic fatigue as a result of functioning through pain, and because of the body's reduced ability to respond to activity. Muscle wastage is a constant problem, pain disrupts sleep patterns, and every activity involved in daily life can become a trial.
CHRONIC OOS sufferers frequently have to undergo considerable emotional adjustment in response to the trauma of gaining a disability affecting their entire lives. Depression and grieving are natural responses to trauma, but sufferers are often socially isolated in the initial stages, and the adjustment period is also highly stressful to partners and family.
Lack of social and medical acceptance can hinder the adjustment process. Problems are encountered because few specialists are confident in dealing with the condition, although occupational health specialists are more aware of OOS. Your GP can obtain the latest OSH guidelines from the Department of Labour (Occupational Safety and Health Unit Draft Report, Department of Labour, Third Draft: May 1991). Health professionals may refer you to a support group which ideally is a mutually supportive group, not a dependency organisation.
Often people with Chronic OOS are dismissed as no hope "cases". But in reality we are each unique and whole people, and there is much hope. Beyond the tears, the anger and fear lies laughter and rediscovery of the things that are important in life. Full "recovery" is not out of the question, but is unlikely. Significant adjustment, on the other hand, is something we can all achieve.
You must become aware that when your body cries out in pain it is your responsibility to listen, take note and take action. If you don't you will find yourself in a dependency situation. Others provide support - you are in charge.
This sheet was produced by OUCH (Over Use Consumer Help) as part of an awareness campaign. The authors, Coral Beadle and Sue White of Wellington NZ, are Chronic OOS sufferers.
