RSI stands for "repetitive strain injury" and is a painful condition caused by performing the same tasks over and over again. RSI can be a debilitating problem for many people, making everyday activities a challenge. Treatments for RSI vary from medication to special braces to surgery, but prevention is always the best way to deal with the problem. Performing certain exercises may help you avoid RSI altogether.
Features
RSI usually comes about through tasks such as typing, writing, mouse clicking or other repetitive movement. RSI causes damage and pain to nerves, muscles and tendons of the shoulders, neck, forearms and hands. Symptoms include numbness, weakness, tingling and pain.
Wall Stretch
A wall stretch will loosen up your chest, arm, wrist and hand to help prevent RSI. To perform the stretch, stand with your side to a wall and reach back to place your palm on the wall. Your arm should be parallel to the floor. Lean into the wall slightly to feel the stretch.
Doorway Stretch
To perform a doorway stretch, stand in a standard doorway and raise your arms so they are bent at 90 degrees with your hands up. Place your forearms on the trim of the doorway and lean or walk forward until you feel a stretch in your chest and shoulders.
Fist Spread
Strengthening and stretching the muscles of your hands is important to prevent RSI from starting. Make a tight fist and hold it for several seconds. Then, open your hand and spread your fingers open as wide as you can.
Finger Extended Wrist Stretch
To stretch out the inside of your wrist, extend your fingers with palm up and hold onto the ends with your other hand. Gently bend your fingers down toward the top of your wrist until you feel a stretch in your inner wrist.
Consideraions
The Carnegie Mellon RSI website suggests getting adequate sleep and eating a balanced diet to help avoid RSI. Taking breaks while you are at work to prevent muscle fatigue is also helpful.
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