Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Work Related Upper Limb Disorder
What is Work Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD)?
Work-Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD) is a general term used to describe a range of conditions affecting the upper limb—such as the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, hand, or fingers—that develop due to repetitive tasks, sustained postures, or occupational activities.
Types of WRULD
There are many types of WRULD including:
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) – pain on the outer part of the elbow caused by repetitive wrist extension or gripping.
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) – pain on the inner part of the elbow linked to repetitive wrist flexion or gripping.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome – compression of the median nerve at the wrist, leading to pain, tingling or numbness in the hand.
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis – inflammation of tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, often due to repetitive thumb or wrist movement.
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy – shoulder pain due to overuse or poor posture during overhead tasks.
- Trigger finger – a condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position due to tendon inflammation.
- Thoracic outlet syndrome – compression of nerves or blood vessels between the neck and shoulder causing arm pain or weakness.
What causes WRULD?
WRULD is caused by work-related activities such as:
- Repetitive movements (e.g., typing, scanning, lifting)
- Sustained or awkward postures (e.g., leaning forward at a desk, reaching overhead)
- Excessive force or strain (e.g., heavy lifting, tight gripping)
- Prolonged use of vibrating tools (e.g., drills, jackhammers)
- Poor workstation ergonomics (e.g., incorrectly positioned keyboards or screens)
- Inadequate rest or recovery time between tasks
- High work pace or pressure without sufficient breaks
What are the symptoms of WRULD?
WRULD (Work-Related Upper Limb Disorder) can cause the following symptoms:
- Pain or aching in the muscles, tendons, or joints
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers or hands
- Weakness or loss of grip strength
- Stiffness or reduced range of movement
- Swelling or inflammation in the affected area
- Cramping or fatigue in the upper limb
- Sensation of heaviness in the arm
- Difficulty performing fine motor tasks (e.g., writing, buttoning clothes)
- Symptoms that worsen with activity and improve with rest
Physiotherapy for WRULD
Physiotherapy can be very important to the treatment of WRULD and it can relieve symptoms in most cases. At Physio.co.uk our physiotherapists are very experienced in treating WRULD. Treatment will also include advice to help prevention in the future. Treatment may include:
- Postural correction and ergonomic advice
- Soft tissue techniques such as massage or myofascial release
- Joint mobilisations to improve mobility
- Exercise therapy to restore strength, endurance, and flexibility
- Activity modification to reduce strain on affected areas
- Splinting or taping where appropriate
- Education on pacing and load management
- Advice on workstation setup and movement breaks
Can WRULD cause any long-term effects?
If the problem is acute (a recent occurrence) and treated promptly, then WRULD can usually be resolved through physiotherapy. However, if the condition is chronic (long-standing), physiotherapy can still play a crucial role by reducing symptoms and supporting long-term management. Treatment in chronic cases often focuses on relieving discomfort, improving function, and preventing further aggravation through tailored strategies and ongoing support.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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