Activity, motion, movement of all kinds is beneficial to the body, the mind, even the spirit. If, however, that movement is done in conjunction with stress or tension, it can lead to pain and tension; even disability. If repetitive movements are continued over a period of several hours over a long period of time (this is very common in certain sports and in the workplace), a condition called repetitive stress injury (RSI) might ensue. Several risk factors are in action here, not merely repetitive motions. These include unnatural posture, heavy lifting, use of excessive force, or any combination of the factors.
The largest percentage of repetitive stress injuries are workplace related. Two of those most notable are carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendinitis of specific joints. Some stress injuries are so debilitating that the sufferer cannot perform his/her work functions or even simple personal chores like brushing teeth or tying shoelaces. According to OSHA, the Occupation Health and Safety Administration, repetitive stress injuries account for 25% of lost-time injuries and illnesses reported to the Department of Labor.
By a wide margin, carpal tunnel syndrome is the most reported stress injury. It is caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes among the bones and ligaments of a person's wrist. It is associated with continuous and rapid finger movements. Those most likely to suffer this type of injury are secretaries, supermarket clerks and bookkeepers. Lately, however, those who spend many hours at a computer keyboard suffer the same fate. Symptoms felt in the thumb, palm, and first three fingers of the hand include pain, numbness, tingling, burning and aching.
Repetitive stress injuries are treatable, but more importantly, are avoidable with some simple procedures.
*Stretch and exercise regularly. A good frequency is 10 minutes every hour.
*Use a footrest at the computer.
*Use ergonomically correct furniture.
*Intentionally relax during the workday.
*Do not grasp any object tightly, e.g. a "mouse" or handle.
*Adjust table and/or monitor heights to accommodate your reach and posture.
Many get symptomatic relief by wearing a wrist brace, taking medication (ibuprofen, aspirin, Aleve), and using heat rubs such as BenGay, Capsaizin, Aspercream or any of the numerous formulas in the pharmacy. Some patients get relief from vitamin B6.
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