Repetitive Strain Injury
HOW WE CAN HELP MINIMISE THE PAIN OF COMMON RSI
Repeating strain injury (RSI) results from overusing of your hands (most commonly, although you can overuse any part of your body) on repetitive tasks. Various repetitive tasks include typing, clicking a mouse or writing. Computer users must be aware about RSI problems and take necessary actions to correct their posture or follow remedial processes. Other than computer users, activities like playing an instrument, gaming or any other repetitive tasks can also lead to RSI.
Symptoms for RSI are pain, weakness, numbness or impairment of motor control. Repetitive activities may strain the muscles and tendons of the forearms, wrists and fingers, causing microscopic tears. Injured muscles lose flexibility and tend to contract. They limit the range of motion of affected body parts which are required for normal function. Repetitive activity without required rest can lead to inflammation of tendon and nerve tissue resulting in symptoms. You may feel tingling, numbness or hypersensitivity to touch due to this process. If it is not checked in time, it repeats again and again and a long-term, chronic problem results.
Physical therapy can help resolve repetitive strain injury. The treatment covers massaging, manipulation, electrical stimulation, exercises and advice. Contact your local Croydon physiotherapists for advice and treatment.