I had the same issues when cutting so long and had " Santa" get me an Accuquilt Go Big (the electric one) 3 years ago--I've had one shoulder surgery and no, thanks! to more. I was having some numbness and ache in my hand and elbow & orthopedist said repetitive motion and we talked about what to do. first is to set up table at correct height--stand straight and bend elbow and workspace should be where your hands are. Then he had me to through the motion--hold your cutter so you are pushing forward, not down (means a sharp blade needed). Like everyone else was saying, doc said to not do same thing for hours on end!, take a rest, have a fatigue mat under you so feet, legs, back gets some relief. and yes to an Aleve right afterward. A friend also showed me how to hold the ruler so you have a finger or two of the hand holding it 'off' the edge so the ruler is bracing against your finger--don't have to press down as much.