What is RSI- repetitive strain injury

RSI or repetitive strain injury is the name given to a number of injuries which can occur with repetitive use of a body part.
Most moving parts of the body can get RSI. Hand therapists most often treat wrist RSI.

Symptoms of RSI
The symptoms of RSI are varied and multiple.
Symptoms may be specific to the part of the body or the structure at that part which is involved. For example overloading of a tendon will result in different symptoms to a nerve which may be pressed on by firm and overworked muscles.
Some symptoms include:

• sore muscle or painful joint in the affected area
• burning or heavy feeling of the involved part
• pins and needles, numbness or tingling at the area or further down the arm or leg
• change in feeling in the hand or foot
• decreased strength
• sometimes swelling or throbbing

Causes of RSI
The primary cause of RSI is repetitive use or overloading of a body part over a prolonged period of time. Other causes can include;

• exposure to vibrating tools e.g. vibrating power tools, older machinery
• prolonged positioning of body parts e.g. holding onto something for a long period of time like a knife hand holding a knife all shift
• poor posture or awkward positioning during tasks, may include stooping, or reaching
• repetitive use of force during tasks e.g. hammering, gripping
  
• holding the same posture for prolonged periods e.g. driving long distances, working at computer
• direct pressure to particular area e.g. hitting heel of hand on a tool, holding onto a tool or handle
• dealing with heavy loads or forces involving push, pulling, lifting, carrying
• stress has been shown to increase the symptoms of RSI

Hand Therapists can help manage RSI of the wrist, thumb, elbow or shoulder.
See other blogs for some information about different types of RSI.
Nerve compression, Biceps tendonitis and how to prevent it, Prune in June and pay for it in July, Do I have carpal tunnel syndrome, What is carpal tunnel syndrome,
How to prevent musicians RSI, Gamer's thumb, Golfer's elbow, Manual workers with carpal tunnel syndrome, Tennis elbow- does a strap help?