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What is repetitive strain injury? -

Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a general term used to describe injury to part of the musculoskeletal or nervous system caused by repetitive use, vibrations, compression, or long periods in a fixed position.

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Repetitive stress disorder -

RSI is also known as work-related upper limb disorder, or non-specific upper limb pain. Other names for the condition include cumulative trauma disorder (CTD), and overuse syndrome. Collectively, these injuries are sometimes referred to as repetitive stress disorders.

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Signs that may indicate onset of RSI -

Some examples of symptoms experienced by patients with RSI are pulsing pain or tingling felt in muscles, nerves, and tendons. Cramp is common. Extremity weakness is also an indicator.

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Other symptoms -

Stiffness and throbbing are also signs that you may be suffering the onset of RSI. Tenderness of skin becomes more frequent.

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Areas of body affected -

A RSI can affect almost any movable part of the human body. The condition, though, mostly affects parts of the upper body, typically forearms and elbows, wrists and hands, and neck and shoulders.

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Frequency -

Initially, you might only notice symptoms when you're carrying out a particular repetitive action. But what kinds of repetitive action are we talking about?

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Causes -

The causes of RSIs vary widely, but are all related to the overuse of muscles and tendons in the upper body. Doing a high-intensity activity for a prolonged period without rest is obviously one cause of RSI. So too is poor posture or activities that involve working in an awkward position.

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Other activities and equipment -

Vibrating equipment and working in cold temperatures are also thought to increase the risk of getting RSI and in fact can make the symptoms worse.

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Stress -

Increased psychological stress has been shown to aggravate RSI.

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Fatigue -

Forceful activities and carrying heavy loads can contribute towards a RSI. And any job that involves repetitive movements—working on an assembly line for example, or at a supermarket checkout—presents a potential risk.

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Work and working environment -

In fact, undertaking a repetitive activity on a daily basis can result in repeated physical exhaustion. This in turn can lead to mental fatigue over time.

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Using a computer -

A general global increase since the 1970s in RSIs of the arms, hands, neck, and shoulder has been attributed to the widespread use in the workplace and at home of keyboard entry devices. These include typewriters and desktop and laptop computers, all of which traditionally require long periods of repetitive motions in a fixed posture.

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Non-occupational factors -

Age and gender are important risk factors for RSIs. Studies have concluded that the risk of RSI increases with age. Furthermore, women are more likely affected than men because of their smaller frame, lower muscle mass and strength, and endocrine (hormonal) influences.

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Lifestyle choices -

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are recognizable rick factors for RSI. In addition, scientific findings indicate that obesity and diabetes may predispose an individual to RSIs.

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Diagnosis -

RSIs are assessed using a number of objective clinical measures. In the first instance, a doctor will normally be able to diagnose a RSI through physical examination. The idea is to usually identify the task or activity that is causing the symptoms.

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Types of RSI -

There are two types of RSI. Type 1 RSI is a musculoskeletal disorder. Symptoms generally include swelling and inflammation of specific muscles or tendons.

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Type 2 RSI -

Type 2 RSI has a range of causes. It is often related to nerve damage resulting from work activities. These can include bursitis–inflammation and swelling of the fluid-filled sac near the joint of the knee, elbow, or shoulder. Carpal tunnel syndrome—pressure on the median nerve passing through the wrist—is another example of Type 2 RSI.

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Treatment -

Early detection and treatment of overuse injuries is important in preventing long-term adverse effects. Types of treatments commonly used include the prescribed use of medication, for example anti-inflammatory painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen.

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Hot or cold? -

Your doctor may also recommend using a hot or cold pack on the affected area.

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Splints -

Some people have found that using an elastic support or splint helps ease symptoms. Seek medical advice first before opting for this measure.

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Physical therapy -

Those suffering from RSI may be referred to a physiotherapist for advice on posture, and how to strengthen or relax your muscles. Massage, yoga, and osteopathy may help ease symptoms.

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Surgery -

As a last resort, surgery may help correct problems with specific nerves and tendons.

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Prevention -

General exercise has been shown to decrease the risk of developing RSI. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to prevent a RSI from developing or worsening if the cause is related to work or other necessary activities.

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What you can do -

If possible, change how you work. Taking regular breaks from a repetitive task can help. To remind you, set up an alarm that goes off at appointed intervals. Tip: it's better to take smaller, more frequent breaks than one long lunch break.

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Stand up -

Standing up and stretching frequently can reduce the risk of RSI. While doing so, extend the back, arms, and fingers. If desk bound, consider using an adjustable height standing desk.

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Eye break -

Remember to give your eyes plenty of tender loving care. Rest the eye muscles by looking up and staring for a moment at objects in the distance.

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Computer and desk workers -

One of the most common causes of RSI today is using a computer or sitting at a desk for long periods. The human body is not designed to sit in a chair for eight hours a day. The aforementioned suggestion of purchasing an adjustable height standing desk may not be practical. So what can you do?

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Workspace -

A non-ergonomically designed workspace can place undue pressure on our bodies. If you work at a computer all day, make sure your seat, keyboard, mouse, and screen are positioned so they cause the least amount of strain.

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Posture -

To avoid slouching, keep the ears and back in a straight line with the pelvis. Avoid bending the wrists, and keep the arms, wrists, and fingers aligned when typing.

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Temperature -

An often overlooked measure is to make sure you are working in an appropriate temperature.

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Learn and act -

Remember, without treatment the symptoms of RSI may eventually become constant and cause longer periods of pain.

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Cause and effect -

There are no "quick fixes" for RSIs. But understanding more about what causes them and how to treat them can help us reduce the inconvenience and debilitating effects they can bring.

Sources: (NHS) (Medical News Today) (RSI Awareness)

See also: Are you susceptible to sciatica?

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