Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is damage to a portion of the musculoskeletal or neurological system caused by repeated use, vibrations, compression, or long periods of inactivity. Repetitive stress disorders (RSDs), cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs), and overuse syndrome are other names for the condition.
RSI and associative trauma disorder are umbrella terms for conditions linked to repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, vibrations, mechanical compression, prolonged awkward positions, or repetitive eccentric contractions. While terminology varies, the US Department of Labor and NIOSH currently use “musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)” and “work-related muscular-skeletal diseases (WMDs).”
What are the Common RSI-related condition include?
Several medical conditions fall under the umbrella of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), each affecting different parts of the body due to overuse or repetitive motion. These include:
Tendinosis (or tendinitis)
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome
De Quervain syndrome
Thoracic outlet syndrome
Intersection syndrome
Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
Trigger finger
Radial tunnel syndrome
Ulnar tunnel syndrome
The Common Causes of RSI
Increased cases of arm, hand, neck, and shoulder RSIs have been linked to the widespread use of keyboards and other repetitive input devices in the workplace.
According to OSHA records, RSI affects about 1.8 million workers annually. Additionally, exposure to extreme heat has also been associated with higher RSI rates.
Common tasks that may cause RSI include:
Using a laptop mouse
Typing
Scanning items at checkout
Using tools
Assembly line work
Sports and athletic training
Symptoms often start gradually, worsening over time and potentially interfering with daily activities even after treatment.
What Are the Causes and Risk Factors of RSI?
RSI typically results from repetitive motions over time. These movements can lead to small injuries in muscles, tendons, or nerves, which accumulate and worsen without adequate rest or correction.
Risk factors include:
Repetitive activities
Awkward or static body positions
Forceful exertions
Exposure to vibration
Prolonged computer use
Poor ergonomic setups
Hot work environments
Over time, these factors can lead to inflammation, reduced flexibility, and pain that limits mobility and function.
The following activities can put you at risk for RSI
These activities and habits can increase your risk of developing a repetitive strain injury (RSI):
- Repetitively pushing the same muscles
- Standing in the same position for an extended amount of time
- Retaining an unnatural posture for a long time, such as holding your arms over your head
- Moving and lifting big objects
- Being in low physical shape or not getting enough exercise
How is Repetitive Strain Injury RSI diagnosed?
A variety of objective clinical measures are used to assess RSIs. Grip and pinch strength tests, diagnostic tests like Finkelstein’s test for De Quervain’s tendinitis, Phalen’s contortion, Tinel’s percussion for carpal tunnel syndrome, and nerve conduction velocity tests that demonstrate nerve compression in the wrist are all examples. X-ray for the wrist and MRI for the thoracic outlet and cervicobrachial areas are two imaging techniques that can show nerve compression. Routine imaging can help with the early detection and treatment of overuse injuries in at-risk populations, which is crucial for avoiding long-term consequences.
It’s a good idea to consult your doctor about RSI if you’re even slightly uncomfortable performing particular chores at work or home. Your doctor will inquire about your employment and other activities to determine if you engage in repetitive movements. They’ll also ask about your working conditions, such as whether you use a computer or have an ergonomic workstation. They’ll also do a physical examination. During the assessment, they’ll do a range of motion tests and look for soreness, inflammation, reflexes, and strength in the affected area.
Your doctor may arrange magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound to determine tissue damage. For the screening of nerve injury, electromyography (EMG) may be ordered.
Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist if the damage is minor. They may also refer you to a specialist or surgeon if the damage is severe.
How is Repetitive Strain Injury RSI treated?
For RSI, there are no quick fixes. The need for early detection in limiting harm is crucial. Occupational Therapists design therapies for Upper Limb Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) that involve ergonomic education. Understanding the proper approach during supporting functional job movements can reduce the risk of an upper limb strain injury. Many muscle strains, ligament sprains, and other bruises and injuries are initially treated with the RICE method. RICE is applied as soon as the damage occurs and throughout the first 24 to 48 hours afterward. These techniques can assist in the reduction of the pain.
Analgesics, my feedback, biofeedback, physical therapy, relaxation, and ultrasound therapy are all standard therapies for early-stage RSIs. However, if treatment is started soon after symptoms appear, low-grade RSIs can sometimes resolve independently.
On the other hand, some RSIs may necessitate more invasive treatment, such as surgery, and can last for years. Although there are no “quick cures” for RSI, effective treatment and preventative methods are available. One is ergonomics, which alters one’s environment (particularly workplace equipment) to reduce repetitive strain.
The risk of acquiring RSI has been reduced by general exercise. Some doctors advise RSI patients to do specialized strengthening exercises, such as improving sitting posture, reducing excessive kyphosis, and possibly preventing thoracic outlet syndrome. Posture and arm use modifications are frequently suggested. How does RSI look in the future? Your symptoms’ severity and overall health will determine your RSI prognosis. You can adapt your work routine and reduce pain and damage by taking preventive precautions. Alternatively, you may need to take a break from work to rest the affected area. If alternative treatments fail, your doctor may consider surgery to treat specific nerve and tendon disorders.
Precautions
To help prevent RSIs in the workplace, it’s important to follow key ergonomic practices
Proper keyboard alignment
Most office ergonomics experts teach employees that they should set up their keyboards correctly so they can type in a neutral position. However, because we spend so much time typing emails, reports, and spreadsheets, poor keyboard positioning can lead to repetitive strain injuries.
Take breaks
Sitting in the same position for long periods is not recommended. Instead, take advantage of natural pauses away from your desks, such as meetings and copying, by stretching or taking a quick walk around the office. Remember to take a rest for your eyes. Look up every few seconds to gaze for a few seconds at anything at least 20 feet away.
Reduce mouse use
Wrist, hand, and neck strain can occur due to minor mouse movements. The first step toward decreasing stress is to place the mouse at the right height and position, but finding strategies to limit mouse use is another wonderful office ergonomic tip. Learn keyboard shortcuts for simple functions like cut and paste, and use the mouse keys feature, which allows you to move the pointer across the screen using the arrow keys on a keyboard’s number pad.
Adjust seating
Employees become fatigued after a hard day at work. Poor posture is a primary source of repetitive strain injuries; thus, leaning on desks or slouching should be avoided. In addition, employees’ seats should be adjusted to sit straight with their feet on the floor or a footstool, not leaning to the side or toward their computer screen. See a doctor at the first signs of strain. A repetitive strain injury could cause a stiff neck, numbness in the fingers, or other upper body symptoms. The longer an injury stays untreated and untreated, the longer it will take to recover. Don’t put off getting help if you’re in agony. Take the time to receive the support you require.
Conclusion
Repetitive strain injuries are a growing concern in both office and manual work environments. They often develop gradually and impacting long-term health and productivity. Early recognition, proper diagnosis, and timely treatment can prevent lasting damage. By adopting ergonomic practices, staying active, and addressing discomfort promptly, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of RSI. Remember, prevention is always easier, and less costly, than recovery. Prioritize your posture, take regular breaks, and consult a healthcare professional at the first sign of symptoms.
