Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive Strains Injuries (RSI)

Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a general term used to describe the pain felt in muscles, nerves and tendons caused by repetitive movement and overuse. It’s also known as work-related upper limb disorder, or non-specific upper limb pain. The condition mostly affects parts of the upper body, such as the:

• Forearms and elbows (Tennis Elbow)
• Wrists and hands (example carpal tunnel syndrome)
• Neck and shoulders (Thoracic Outlet syndrome)

The Cause:

Repetitive Strain Injuries are strains within the connective tissue due to prior injury, habitually poor posture or surgical scarring. In an effort to protect the body, the connective tissue undergoes chemical changes, growing more dense and fibrous. The ability of the muscle to guide smoothly and effortlessly becomes inhibited: nerve impulses are impeded. The result is inflammation, nerve impingement, debilitating pain, and weakness. You can create an environment that has low toler­ance for continuous repetitive movement.

Learn How To:

• Achieve comfort on the job.
• Identify and relieve common pain producers.
• Use activities to promote soft tissue health.
• Exercise and stretch properly.
• Identify great times to do stretching.