Damaged muscles / connective tissue

Muscle is a body tissue containing cells that contract to allow for bone movement. When these movements are quick and repetitive, normal blood flow and oxygen exchange with the muscle cells is inhibited. This can lead to pain, inflammation and scar tissue. Muscle pain can also result from holding a fixed position for a long time.
 
The muscles and other structures under the skin are wrapped in a connective tissue called fascia. With overuse injuries the fascia becomes constricted, loses its elasticity and causes the contraction of muscles to be less efficient. As the muscles bind together, friction between them increases and a vicious cycle ensues.
 
Diffuse RSI pain sometimes stems from localised tenderness in individual muscles, known as trigger points. Dr Adam Ward, Clinical Director and Consultant in Orthopaedic & Musculoskeletal Medicine at the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital has presented widely on this theme.