What is RSI and How to Treat It?

What is RSI and how to cause RSI

RSI or repetitive strain injury is a general term rather than a specific diagnosis used to describe gradual onset pain usually in the forearm, wrist and hand.


It is caused by repetitive movements of the wrist or fingers and is probably more common as a work related condition than a sports injury.


Repetitive use of a keyboard, mouse or manual labor such as using a screw driver can also cause any of the various injuries which come under the umbrella term of repetitive strain injury.condition which can be regards as RSI include:

Carpal tunnel syndrome which is a compression of a nerve as it passes through the wrist;


Wrist tendonitis which is inflammation or degeneration of the tendons which join muscles to bones in the wrist and hand;


Wrist bursitis or inflammation of the small sacks of fluid found in joints which sit between tendons and bone to help lubricate movement.


Work related RSI injuries are usually exacerbated by factors such as poor posture, inadequate wrist support or desk set-up or inadequate equipment.



There is no test or imaging which can diagnoses RSI. Therefore diagnosis is made based on a history of the clients condition, symptoms, occupation and sporting involvement.

How to get rid of RSI

Rest

if your symptoms get worse Ask your boss for a couple vacation days to rest your wrist(s). Rest is almost always the first course of action for RSI. It stops the motion that causes the irritation and gives your tendons and ligaments time to heal. Refrain from using smartphones and computer mice for a few days.


Take Medications

Take an anti-inflammatory medication which reduces swelling and inflammation. In most cases, you can take these over-the-counter medications several times per day. But read the label for the maximum number of pills you can take in a 24-hour period.


Ice and Heat

Ice is usually recommended for most inflammatory conditions during the first 72 hours. Ice reduces swelling by limiting the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid to the injured area. It also helps to elevate your injured wrist when icing it to limit blood flow.


Apply ice for 15 or 20 minutes at a time. After the swelling subsides, use heat to promote the flow of blood along with its healing properties.

Use a Wrist Brace

Braces stabilize your wrist and muscles, limiting the movements that cause soreness and inflammation and allowing them to heal without being exerted. The wrist brace fits around your hand and forearm to ensure support to the injured area. You can purchase wrist braces at most discount or drug stores.


In addition,we can take some action in our work and life to prevent RSI. resting your hand on a pad when typing ,keeping your wrists and hands in straight alignment when typing or taking periodic breaks from long typing sessions can help you avoid this. You can also stretch your wrist and forearm muscles to build strength and loosen the tension.