A repetitive strain injury (RSI), also called cumulative trauma disorder (CTD), occupational overuse syndrome, or work related upper limb disorder (WRULD), is any of a loose group of conditions resulting from overuse of a tool, eg. computer or knife, or other activity that requires repeated movements. It is a syndrome that affects muscles, tendons and nerves in the hands, arms and upper back.
Medically accepted conditions are when a group of muscle is kept very tensed for a long period of time due to poor posture.
There are mainly two groups of workers who may suffer from RSI. Group one, usually those who are involved in factory or production work, food processing, working on rapid moving conveyor lines, assembly of other goods, heavy goods handling, and work that requires fast movement but not necessarily require handling any heavy materials. The other group is users of computer components such as mouse and keyboard. Most works that require extended hours of using mouse and keyboard irrespective of the job role could cause RSI.
Symptom
Symptoms of RSI can vary from person to person but the most common symptom is pain. Pain from RSI is experienced while carrying the specific task that causes it. There are many different symptoms of RSI but the following may be a sign of RSI.
- Recurring pain or soreness in neck, shoulders, upper back, wrists or hands.
- Tingling, numbness, coldness or loss of sensation.
- Loss of grip strength, lack of endurance, weakness.
- Muscles in the arms and shoulders feel hard and wiry when palpated.
- Pain or numbness while lying in bed. Often early stage RSI sufferers mistakenly think they are lying on their arms in an awkward position cutting off circulation.
Diagnosis
Unfortunately there are no tests that can be carried out to confirm RSI. Since pain in a certain area could be caused by numerous factors. It could be from carrying out a lot of DIY work or lifting heavy articles. Another factor that makes it difficult to diagnose RSI is that the pains tend to go away after the tasks that cause RSI has been stopped.
Doctors or GP's may diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome using X-Ray but this sort of diagnosis is rare.
Prevention
Symptoms for repetitive strain injury (RSI) can ease over time. To prevent the development of RSI, or relieve your symptoms, you need to review particular aspects of your lifestyle. For example, if you take part in regular sporting activities remember to warm up before you start, and cool down afterwards.
Aspects of your working environment are likely to have the most impact on your RSI. For example:
- If you work at a computer all day, make sure your seat, keyboard, mouse, and screen are positioned so that they cause you the least amount of strain to your fingers, hands, wrists, neck and back.
- Sit at your desk with a good posture. Adjust your chair so that your forearms are horizontal with the desk, and that your eyes are the same height as the top of your computer screen.
- If you do a repetitive task at work try to take plenty of regular breaks. It is better to take more frequent smaller breaks than just one long break at lunch.
- Speak to your employer if there is anything relating to your working environment that you feel could be improved. It is in their interest to ensure they do everything possible to help prevent or ease your RSI. You may also find if beneficial to speak to your employer's occupational health advisers for further assistance and advice.
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