Rock Climbing and Repetitive Strain Injury

With rock climbing becoming increasily popular, Dr Kevin Lee provides some advice for the newcomers and regulars in an interview with The Straits Times, Mind Your Body on 18 June.

Rock climbing injuries most commonly occurs from overuse and strain. These injuries are known as overuse or repetitive strain injury. They can be caused by frequent, repetitive movements (and stress) of a joint during rock climbing, which hurts the body’s ability to regenerate itself. As such, Dr Lee advises that “if you experience pain in a particular area every time you perform a particular action or move, then it is time to back off and stop doing that particular action… so that the area has a chance to heal.”

To be free from repetitive strain injury, always try to pace yourself, use proper techniques and avoid frequent overexerting!