RSIwww.charleshowes.com

What is RSI?

Repetitive Strain Injuries occur from repeated physical movements doing damage to tendons, nerves, muscles, and other soft body tissues.

Another name for the condition is Cumulative Trauma Disorder.

Related Conditions to RSI

Tendinitis Bursitis Tenosynovitis DeQuervain’s Syndrome Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

What are the Symptoms?

Tightness, discomfort, stiffness, or pain in the hands, wrists, fingers, forearms, or elbows.

Tingling, coldness, or numbness in the hands. Clumsiness or loss of strength and coordination in

the hands. Pain that wakes you up at night. Feeling a need to massage your hands, wrists, and

arms.

How Can It Be Prevented? Ensure that the operator has a

comfortable sitting position sufficiently flexible to reach, use, and observe the display screen, keyboard, and document.

Provide posture support for the back, arms, legs, and feet, and adjustable display screens and keyboards.

Ensure that the Video Display Terminals (VDT) tables or desk are vertically adjustable to allow for operator adjustment of the screen and keyboard.

Ensure proper chair height and support to the lower region of the back.

Ensure that document holders are used to allow the operator to position and view material without straining the eyes or neck, shoulder, and back muscles.

Some Specifics

Don’t rest the wrist on anything

while typing.

Tilt The Back Edge Of the Keyboard Down

Recent research suggest that all of this may be easier to do if you tilt the back edge of your keyboard down, away from you.

Some Other “Tricks”

Don’t pound on the keys. Use two hands to perform double-key

operations like Ctrl-C or Alt-F. Take lots of breaks to stretch and relax. Hold the mouse lightly. Keep your arms & hands warm Eliminate unnecessary computer usage.

Other “Stuff”

Evaluate other activities Don’t tuck the telephone between your

shoulder and ear. Pay attention to your body. Remember that children are at risk too.

What If You Have Symptoms of RSI?

See a doctor right away. Early diagnosis is critical to limiting

damage. Systemic disorders such as diabetes can

mimic or exacerbate RSI.

There Are No Quick Fixes