Repetitive Strain Injury

What is Repetitive Strain Injury?

Repetitive strain injury (RSI), commonly called work related upper limb disorder (WRULD), is a general term used to describe the pain caused to muscles, nerves and tendons by repetitive movement and over-use. The condition mostly affects parts of the upper body, such as the forearm, elbow, wrist, hands, neck and shoulders.

RSI is usually associated with doing a particular activity repeatedly or for a long period of time. It often occurs as a result of working with computers, or doing repetitive manual work.

There are two types of RSI:

• Type 1 RSI – RSI is classed as type 1 when a doctor can diagnose a recognised medical condition, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. It is usually characterised by symptoms such as swelling and inflammation of the muscles or tendons.
• Type 2 RSI – RSI is classed as type 2 when a doctor cannot diagnose a medical condition from the symptoms. This is usually because there are no obvious symptoms, just a feeling of pain. Type 2 RSI is also referred to as non-specific pain syndrome.

What causes it?

RSI is most commonly caused by a repeated action carried out on a daily basis. A variety of jobs can lead to RSI, such as working at an assembly line, at a supermarket check-out, or typing and data-entry at a computer.

Factors that can put you at risk of RSI include:

• repetitive activities,
• doing an activity for a long time without rest,
• doing an activity that involves force, such as lifting heavy objects,
• poor posture or activities that require you to work in an awkward position.

How can we help?

There are many treatment options for Repetitive Strain Injuries, they all aim to relieve pain, and enable your strength and mobility to return. Treatment options include Physiotherapy and taking a course of anti-inflammatory painkillers. Our Physiotherapists can give advice on posture and exercises to help strengthen or relax your muscles.