Repetitive strain injury
(RSI) is a type of disorder that primarily affects muscles, nerves and
joints. This includes conditions such as
rotator cuff and achilles tendonitis, carpel tunnel syndrome, neck tension
syndrome, bursitis, golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, and plantar fasciitis. Symptoms of RSI may include restricted
mobility, weakness, numbness, tingling, burning sensations, swelling, redness, sharp
and/or aching pain. In its severest form,
RSI can significantly limit physical functioning and render people incapable of
carrying out even simple tasks.
RSI can affect anyone involved in activities that require rapid and/or repetitive
motion of muscles and joints in work, sport, or leisure activities. It is more likely to happen if these
movements are combined with awkward posture(s), excessive force, poor
technique, and using the wrong equipment or tool. Physical deconditioning can also make
individual's susceptible to RSI. As a
result, RSI can affect a broad variety of people including: trade workers such as electricians, painters,
and carpenters; recreational athletes such as tennis players and golfers; and
labourers such as cleaners and assembly line workers. Video gaming, computer use, holding one's
phone between the neck and shoulder, and even hobbies like knitting and playing
a musical instrument are associated with RSI.
While most cases of RSI are
treatable, it can recur and may become chronic without appropriate
management. Pain in one area of the body
may also spread to other areas as the body tries to compensate. For example, pain in the wrist can move to
the forearm, shoulder joint and neck muscles as an individual attempts to avoid
pain and symptoms while continuing to perform the offending activities. Therefore, prevention is key to managing RSI. This is accomplished through identifying and
then altering or eliminating the situations that contribute
to the cause of RSI. This may include making changes to a work station, using the
correct tools/equipment, taking breaks to relax overworked muscles and joints,
and performing exercises to relieve stress and strengthen the affected parts of
your body.
Chiropractors
are healthcare professionals skilled in evaluating, maintaining and restoring
physical function. They can provide
education to help prevent RSI and offer effective therapy to help relieve
symptoms that have already developed. This
may include treatment options such as joint mobilizations, specialized soft
tissue therapy, acupuncture, and electrotherapy. In addition, a chiropractor can advise you on
modifications to your work environment as well as assist you in improving work
habits and postures. Specific
rehabilitative exercise prescription that includes strengthening and stretching
exercises, combined with aerobic conditioning, may also be part of your
treatment plan to prevent recurrence of RSI.
If RSI is affecting your
ability to get through the day and keeping you away from your favourite
activities, consider chiropractic care. A
chiropractor will assess your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and recommend
a treatment plan to put you on the road to recovery. For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.
This
article is a basic summary for educational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be
considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly
licensed health practitioner.
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