CANS

In short

• CANS is the acronym used in the Netherlands to refer to arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints
• These complaints are often caused by repetitive movements and having to remain in the same position for long periods
• A physiotherapist can help you reduce the symptoms and understand the factors that cause and maintain the symptoms

What is CANS?

CANS is the acronym used in the Netherlands to refer to arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints. These symptoms were previously referred to as repetitive strain injury or RSI. The term implies that the condition is caused by frequent repetition of the same movements. But this is by no means always the case. So, in the Netherlands the term has been replaced by the acronym CANS.

Arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints are often regarded as a work-related disorder. But again this is not always the case. Having said this, one in four employees suffer to varying degrees from these complaints.

They are divided into specific and non-specific conditions. Specific arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints are conditions that can be medically diagnosed, such as frozen shoulder or carpal tunnel syndrome. In the case of non-specific arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints, there is no obvious medical explanation for the symptoms. Because the condition can develop in different parts of the upper body, the physiotherapist will always determine whether the diagnosis of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaint is correct, or if the symptoms belong under a different heading, such as neck pain.

Causes of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints

Arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints are usually caused by repeatedly performing the same movements with the hand, arm or shoulder. But they can also develop when the arm, neck, or shoulder is held in the same unhealthy position for long periods.

Risk factors

There are indications that certain factors are associated with increased risk of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints. These include:

• Advanced age
• Being a woman
• A history of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints
• Increased muscle tension
• Intensive and prolonged keyboard and mouse use
• Low job satisfaction

Symptoms of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints

The most common symptoms are:

• Pain, stiffness and restricted movement in the neck, shoulder, arm and/or hand
• Loss of strength
• Tingling

Treatment of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints

The symptoms of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints can hinder your ability to work, participate in sport and enjoy hobbies. They can also make it more difficult to perform everyday activities. Some symptoms of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints disappear relatively quickly, others persist. It is good to know that physiotherapy and the advice offered during the sessions can help speed up your recovery and reduce or even eliminate the risk of symptoms returning.

How can a physiotherapist help?

Once the physiotherapist has gathered all of the necessary information from asking you about your symptoms and conducting a physical examination, they will diagnose the problem or problems. These may be specific or non-specific. Then the physiotherapist will propose a treatment plan that meets your needs. The length of the treatment can vary, depending on the time needed to treat and recover from the condition(s). The physiotherapist will also identify factors that are still causing or perpetuating the symptoms and explain how you can modify these factors to speed up your recovery.

Treatment of arm, neck and/or shoulder complaints consists primarily of understanding and learning to recognise and modify the risk factors that may be causing the symptoms.

Depending on the diagnosis, the physiotherapist will use specific methods that are most effective in treating the condition. These may include brief massage, advice on posture and (muscle) strength exercises. The physiotherapist will explain the treatment options for the condition(s) you have been diagnosed with.

Our physiotherapists are available nearby to provide immediate treatment for your symptoms. We have a practice in your company or in the area, so you can start treatment straight away and do not have to spend time travelling. Our physiotherapists are familiar with your workplace. They know a great deal about the workstations, working postures, workloads and strains that the employees within the company have to deal with. They will assess your condition and determine the right treatment and guidance to best meet your needs.