Repetitive Strain Injury

What is it?

Repetitive strain injury (RSI), also known as Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD), is the most recent manifestation of illness concepts that link use of the arm to injury or disease. Prior to typewriters or computers there was the concept of "writer's cramp". RSI occur from repeated physical movements doing damage to tendons, nerves, muscles, and other soft body tissues.

When can it happen?

It can happen when an instrument or component (pc, keyboard) is overused in a way that causes tissue damage leading to pain. Conditions such as RSI tend to be associated with both physical and psychosocial stressors.

 

What are the symptoms?

·         Pain in the arm (typically spread over many areas).

·         The pain is worse with activity.

·         Weakness, lack of endurance.

·         Muscles in the arms and shoulders feel hard and wiry when palpated

How can I prevent it when using a PC?

·         Use the correct typing technique.

·         Sit in comfortable posture position.

·         While you are actually typing your wrists should not rest on anything.

·         Increase your font size to see everything clearer.

·         Don’t pound on the keys, use light touch.

·         Take brakes in between periods.

·         Hold the mouse lightly.

Why is it related to computers?

·         Many people spend long amounts of time on the pc, without taking a break resulting in severe pain.

·         Many people do not know the dangers of RSI.

·         The PC is often misused by using certain parts improperly.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Treatment types

·         Physiotherapy

·         Medication

·         Steroid Injections

·         Surgery

·         Chiropractic and Osteopathy

·         Massage.

·         Pain Management

5 Steps to recover
Avoiding of the risk of any further damage
A full and accurate diagnosis of the condition/s affecting the patient
An appropriate treatment to clear the blockage (the efficacy of treatments varies according to the condition/s and circumstances of the individual)
Activities to stimulate blood flow (including avoiding activities which restrict circulation)
Return to work slowly

Bibliography/References

·         www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/repetitive_strain_injury

·         www.eeshop.unl.edu/rsi

·         www.rsi.org.uk

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