The term repetitive stress injury (RSI) encompasses more than 100 illnesses and injuries, including tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome, according to the Department of Labor. RSIs are considered one of the fastest-growing workplace injuries and can be so severe that the pain completely inhibits a worker from performing a job. Risk factors that the Department of Labor reports include repetitive motion, such as typing; awkward posture, and heavy or improper lifting. It warns that sometimes a combination of these risk factors are to blame, however, what they have in common is wear and tear on the body due to a chronic, repetitious motion.
Considerations
Some of the symptoms of repetitive stress injury include numbness or tingling in the hands or wrists. Other RSI symptoms may include pain in the hands, arms, shoulders and neck, as well as losing strength or coordination in the hands, and even dropping things, according to Harvard researchers. Not everyone experiences all the symptoms, and RSIs are sometimes hard to diagnose because the symptoms may appear hours or days after the injury.
On the Phone
Researchers at Cornell University offer a simple tip for preventing RSIs. They recommend not cradling the phone between the neck and shoulder when speaking. They say it is better to hold the phone in your hand and avoid twisting your neck. If you like to be “hands free,” then Cornell recommends using a headset.
Keyboard Tips
According to Harvard, another tip for preventing these kinds of injuries is to use proper typing techniques. It is common to contort the hands to perform dual key strokes, like “control” or “alt” functions. It is better to do it the long way, and use one hand for each key instead twisting either hand. Also, Harvard researchers recommend that when typing, the hands should be parallel to the keyboard, without twisting. In addition, the wrists should be up, not resting on the keyboard.
Take Breaks Often
More short breaks are better than fewer longer ones, according to Harvard. Get up and move around each half hour if you work on a computer. It’s best to rest your eyes and body, even for a minute or two. If you experience pain or numbness, it is especially important to stop and rest, Harvard warns.
Stretching
It is recommended that you see a doctor if you suspect you already have an injury. A doctor or health professional may recommend stretching as part of an overall wellness plan. However, it is especially important not to cause further strain to an existing injury.
For prevention of RSIs, stretching can be quite helpful, according to Harvard. During quick breaks, do a few neck, shoulder and hand stretches. Harvard researchers emphasize prevention of RSIs and say a few simple changes at home or at work may save you months or even years of disability.
