RSI is an overuse type injury caused by fatigue of muscles. RSI can occur as a work or sports related injury. RSI affects the lower limbs as well as the upper limbs. Examples can include Achilles tendonitis, De Quervains tendonitis, tennis and golfers elbows. Physiotherapy can assist in prevention and treatment of your symptoms, and is most effective in the early stages.
RSI generally refers to specific injuries occurring in the upper body from repeated overuse. RSI is an umbrella term for a wide range of overuse injuries causing trauma initially on a microscopic scale to the muscles, nerves and joints of the fingers, hand, wrist, elbow and shoulders.
Symptoms can take months, if not years to appear. Symptoms may start initially with aching and if left untreated, it can lead to severe pain and at times pins and needles, numbness and weakness in the limb whilst carrying out the aggravating activity. RSI can involve both limbs as symptoms progress.
RSI is common in the workplace with the new ‘computer age’. Those spending long periods at a desk or in front of computers are at a high risk of experiencing repetitive strain injuries. RSI is increased with poor working environments such as inadequate desk heights and poor seating.
An example of RSI can be: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Symptoms can involve tingling and pain of the thumb and first two fingers of the hand. Repetitive flexion of the wrist compresses and increases pressure on the nerves that pass from the wrist to the hand, particularly the median nerve.
Book in to see one of our physiotherapists to see what you can do to treat your symptoms and prevent them returning in the future.