Definition of terms

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI Clinic definition):

"musculoskeletal symptoms affecting work and daily activities caused by physical and/or psychological stresses on the body, beyond it's ability to adapt."

Work related musculoskeletal disorder:

"...disorders and diseases of the musculoskeletal system having proven or hypothetical work related causal component." (Hagberg et al, 1995)
Symptoms most frequently experienced by employees: Pain, burning, tingling, numbness, swelling, perceived temperature change, fatigue, a feeling of "heaviness" in extremities, being awakened at night, and interference with activities of daily living.
Hagberg et al (1995) suggested the term Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs). This term, while indicating the relationship to work/occupation, does not imply a sole cause such as repetitive use. This latter label seems aptly representative of a problem that is multi-faceted in nature, with a polygenic etiology and affecting a number of physiological systems.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome:

a large group of muscle disorders characterized by the presence of hypersensitive areas called "trigger points" within or more muscles, together with a syndrome comprising all or some of: pain (local and referred), contracture, tenderness, limitation of range of motion, weakness, and autonomic dysfunction.

Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS):

is a chronic, often debilitating disorder of unknown cause characterized by fatigue, pain and cognitive disorders. The often severe cognitive complaints distinguish the syndrome from other similar disorders, and usually occur later in the evolution of the disease.

Fibromyalgia:

a syndrome of generally wide spread pain, decreased pain threshold, as manifested by tender points, most often associated with fatigue, stiffness, and disturbed sleep.