In a recent study of over a thousand U.K. adults, conducted by health and safety consultancy Arinite, results showed that 22 per cent of respondents expressed concern about experiencing back or neck injuries, whilst 18 per cent worried about having repetitive strain injuries. Both injuries could be acquired at work. Repetitive strain injuries or RSIs are often seen amongst people working all day in front of the computer or carrying out repetitive manual work, and these often cause pain to some parts of the upper body.

Although there had been no recent statistics regarding RSIs, a figure provided by the RSI Action saw that between 2003 and 2004, as many as 4.7 million working days were lost due to these injuries, and one in three people working on computers are already showing symptoms of RSI. For residents of West London and its suburbs, there are a number of treatments for this condition. One proven method to relieve pain in the upper body caused by RSI is to undergo physiotherapy in Ealing.

Causes and Symptoms of RSI

RSI has two types. Type 1, which includes conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tenosynovitis and tendonitis, is caused by repetitive tasks which make muscles and tendons swell. Type 2 usually causes pain in an area but there are no obvious signs of inflammation or swelling.

The most common symptom of RSI is pain and tenderness in the affected muscle or joint. People may also feel a pulsating, throbbing, or even tingling sensation in the area, particularly in the hand or arm. At times, people suffering from RSI may also lose the sensation or strength of their hands.

People at Risk

The ones most at risk of contracting RSI are those who do repetitive tasks, who perform high-intensity activities for a long time and without breaks or rest, and who have poor posture. You are also at risk of RSI when your line of work requires you to perform tasks in an awkward position, or when you’re required to operate vibrating equipment. Working in an office with cold temperatures could worsen the symptoms.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Once you’ve established that you’re suffering from any type of RSI, it’s advised to determine the cause and take steps to reduce whatever activity or condition causes it. You must also seek help from Ealing physiotherapy experts like those from CK Physio, who can help alleviate RSI-related pain. In undergoing physiotherapy, you may be advised to improve on your posture, along with doing some stretches and exercises that may help relax and strengthen your muscles.

Sources
What is repetitive strain injury (RSI)? What causes repetitive strain injury?, Medical News Today
Repetitive strain injury (RSI), NHS