Repetitive strain injury (RSI) encompasses various musculoskeletal conditions. The problem arises from repeating certain tasks over an extended period, causing body parts to experience pain. Most cases of RSI affect the hands or arms. The damage is typically in soft tissues like tendons, tendon sheaths, nerves and muscles. RSI is attributed to work environments that require repetition of actions like typing on a computer. Different work settings will cause varied RSI symptoms. Some other cases of RSI may be due to a leisure activity that requires repetition. For example, if an individual engages in the same activity every day, then they may end up with RSI symptoms.

The Need for Physio

Besides pain, a patient suffering from RSI may have muscle spasms or weakness, numbness, tingling and inflammation. Note that sometimes an individual with RSI may live with the condition for a long time without noticing it. The recommendation for a person with RSI is to stay away from the work environment causing the condition. However, this may not always work out, especially if the activity is fundamental in providing a livelihood. Physiotherapy becomes the best solution to treat RSI. What can you expect in a London physiotherapy clinic when seeking treatment for RSI?

Treatment Options

A physiotherapist can prescribe exercises to help return normalcy to the arms and hands. The benefit of working with a physio is that they have a unique understanding of the body. You may not even know you have RSI, but a physiotherapist can diagnose the problem once presented with the symptoms. A physio professional in London will set exercises that suit your situation. For instance, if the condition is worse around the wrist, exercises may include flexing and making fists. Treatment may also include medication to reduce inflammation and pain. Ultrasound therapy and nerve stimulation are some of the options that a doctor may consider in serious cases. A specialist will lay out a treatment schedule that corresponds to the degree of the injury.

Management of RSI

Besides providing an exercise program, a physiotherapy expert will give advice on the best way to reduce the causes of RSI. Sitting in front of a computer daily is one of the most common causes of the condition. Repetitive tasks in factories are also risky. A physiotherapist can give tips on the appropriate postures to make your work activities less risky. You will also receive recommendations on taking sufficient breaks when working. Your physio must first understand the root of the problem, though. An RSI condition should get the necessary treatment as soon as possible to avoid lifetime complications.

Sources:

Repetitive Strain Injury, patient.info

What can I do about RSI?, dailymail.co.uk