Introduction to RSI
What is Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
Repetitive Strain Injury or RSI is usually caused by repeated overuse or abuse and injury to the muscles of the upper part of the body particularly in the hands, arms, wrists or the shoulders. The most common RSI conditions are the following: Occupational Overuse Syndrome or Work-related Upper Limb Injury (WRULD) or Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD) or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS).
What are the symptoms of RSI?
RSI of Repetitive Strain Injury is mostly and frequently caused by repeated movements or actions that are being carried out. RSI symptoms include tenderness in your muscles or joints, throbbing sensation in the affected area, tingling or numbness in the affected area and loss of strength in the affected area. The Symptoms of RSI may take months or years to appear. At the start, a slight pain may be felt on the affected area. However, as the problem progresses, the more pain will be felt while doing the repeated activity. When the problem becomes severe, pain may be felt most of the time and even at the slightest movement.
Who is affected with RSI?
RSI mostly occurs on people whose job or hobby involves repetitive movements. They are the mostly likely to be at risk. The risk of acquiring Repetitive Strain Injury increases when you spend long periods at work without a break or sitting on an uncomfortable seat or working on a poorly arranged workstation.
The computer keyboard and mouse are often responsible for RSI when you are at work. The repetitive action of typing on a computer can cause painful fingers and hands. RSI caused by typing on a computer is commonly referred to as “writer’s cramp”. Video games and text messaging could also increase the risk in acquiring RSI. Factory assembly line workers, musicians, dressmakers and cleaners are most likely to develop RSI too.
Can RSI be prevented?
Since RSI is mostly work-related, you can only reduce the risk of developing one by warming up and cooling down your muscles. If you work in front of the computer all day, make sure that your seat, keyboard, mouse and screen are positioned properly so that they would not cause you much strain to your hands, fingers, neck and back. Taking regular breaks during workdays to relax and loosen up your muscles. When your work requires repetitive task then you should take plenty of short breaks rather than taking one long break at lunch.
What is the treatment for RSI?
The treatment for Repetitive Strain Injury includes painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Acupuncture, physiotherapy and osteopathy can also be your choice of treatment.
If you have the symptoms of RSI, it is important that you get treatment quickly. The best home-remedy for RSI is the use of heat and cold packs on the affected area while giving enough time for the muscles to relax and cool down. You can also do some exercise or fitness techniques to help ease RSI pain. You can do a bit of walking, swimming yoga or and meditation. The sooner the treatment given means the bigger the chances of a fast recovery.
If you have suffered from a repetitive strain injury (RSI) caused by the work you do, and feel that you RSI may have been caused by the negligence of your employer, you may be entitled to make a no win no fee personal injury compensation claim. Contact the National Accident Helpline who will be happy to discuss your RSI claim and the potential compensation you could be entitled to. Contact the National Accident Helpline on 0800 6783 601 or complete our online personal injury claim form.