Repetitive Strain Injury

Repetitive strain injury is a wide range of problems and it has been found to affect nearly all moving parts of the human body. The most common cause of repetitive strain injury include activities such as recurring tasks, forceful exertions, vibrations, mechanical compression, and sustained or awkward positions among others.

Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a general term which is used to describe the pain that affects the muscles, nerves, and tendons which occur as a result of recurring movements and excessive use. It can also be referred to as work-related upper limb disorder, or non-specific upper limb pain.

The parts of the body which are commonly affected by RSI are the upper body, such as forearms and elbows, wrists and arms, neck and shoulders.

Below are some types of activities which have been found to cause a Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI):

• Using a computer mouse
• Works that involve typing, for example, typist
• Grasping tools
• Work was done on the assembly line
• Sports training

What are the Causes of a Repetitive Strain Injury?

The numerous causes of repetitive strain injury, but the most common causes are a repetition of tasks that normally do not cause harm, possibly followed by the exertion of force. Such a repetition can affect the body in various ways:

1. Carpal tunnel syndrome. Inflammation of the tendon occurs during repeated bending and extension of the wrist, resulting in pressure on the median nerve and leads to numbness, burning and tingling symptoms.

2. Tennis elbow. Tennis elbow is caused by damage to the muscles or inflammation of the tendons where they are attached to the bone.

3. Tenosynovitis and writer’s cramp. This is common in jobs that involve routine office work or assembly-line work.

4. Vibrations White finger. This occurs when pneumatic drills and hammers are used.

5. Excessive use of any part of the body, aggravated by poor posture, twisting, coldness, vibration or stress, is a risk factor for RSI.

The majority of the cases of RSI occurs as a result of the combination of factors. While primary factors, on the other hand, are primarily related to the environment, secondary factors are also likely to play a role.

Below are some secondary risk factors for the development of RSI:

1. Predisposition because of factors such as age, intrinsic strength and general health.

2. Stress (it can either be physical or emotional) that makes muscles and soft tissues tense up and thus becomes more susceptible to injury.

Below are some of the activities that can cause repetitive strain injuries:

• Making use of a jackhammer or other vibrating power tool.
• When the neck is bent in order to hold a phone handset.
• Holding tools with small or narrow handles, such as sewing needles or knives.
• Gripping tools that are too large.
• Raising up heavy objects, such as boxes or people in a healthcare environment.
• Grab the steering wheel.
• Doing the same action repeatedly, for example, scanning of items at checkout.
• Hold limbs without support, such as tip-free joints.
• Sit in a tight position for a long time.

Repetitive Strain Injury Treatment

Treatment for a Repetitive Strain Injury requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your injured area. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your injured area to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.

Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:

Ice Substitute Poultice

Bruise Relief Liniment

Muscle Therapy Massage Oil

Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:

Pain Relief Liniment

Tendon and Ligament Poultice

Muscle Therapy Massage Oil