RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury)
RSI is becoming the most common ailment plaguing the population at this time. The mostcommon areas affected are the hands, wrist, elbow, knee, shoulder and neck. Peoplewho have computer or desk jobs, chefs, carpenters, mechanics, waitresses, baristas and anyonewho performs a repetitive task are the most likely candidates.RSI is known as repetitive strain injury. This is a generic term for a whole range of disorders.They can be classifi ed into specifi c pathological conditions (TYPE 1) and non-specific painsyndromes (TYPE 2).
TYPE 1: Specific Pathological Conditions
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Epicondylitis (tennis/golfers elbow)
- Rotator cuff syndrome
- Tendonitis: including tendons of the forearm, hand, thighs and shoulders
- Trigger fi nger/thumb
- Cervicogenic headaches
- Bursitis: affecting the knee, elbow and shoulder
TYPE 2: Non-Specific Pain Syndrome
This syndrome causes a diffuse pain in the overused area but is unpredictable in that it canmove from one site to another without any provocation. This syndrome may cause tendernessaround joints and muscles but may not display any physical signs when a practitioner examinesthe area e.g. swelling, heat, tight muscle tissue. For this reason it is very diffi cult to diagnoseand even harder for insurance companies to recognise as a legitimate claim.Osteopathic treatment can really help with this difficult syndrome. This can be done byappropriately easing joint movement, muscle tension and stretching tissue to allow muchbetter function. This is where a long term return to work strategy can be achieved.
Warning signs of RSI
- Pain – usually increasing by the end of the day
- Cramping – especially in the forearm and hands
- Slight weakness
Correct Posture
- Sit back in seat
- Feet flat on the floor
- Shoulders relaxed
- Chin tucked in softly
- Mouse close to keyboard
- Elbows by your side
- Top of monitor at eye level or just below
Advanced signs of RSI
- Pain – at rest and any activity using the affected joints/muscles even if it’s not the repetitive task
- Profound weakness – for example inability to pick up pencil or coffee mug
- Loss of fine motor skills
- Pins and needles
- Numbness
If anyone is experiencing any of these symptoms osteopathic consultation should be sought. Once advanced symptoms have occurred intervention must be performed to avoid long term pain and disability. As with most musculo-skeletal conditions the sooner something is addressed the better.
Ways to avoid RSI
- Frequent breaks
- Stretches – a great way to fill in the breaks. Many forearm, shoulder, hand and wrist stretches can be performed without leaving the desk.
- Avoid awkward and rigid positions - it sounds silly but people make their work harder for themselves by putting objects further away from their body than necessary, using tools too big or too small and over contracting muscles to complete a simple task.
- Talk to your employer – there may be something they can do to make life easier such as by rotating your daily tasks and therefore cutting down the repetition (and monotony).
- Correct posture often.