Preventing Repetitive Strain Injuries in the Workplace
Workplace hazards, such as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), are best eliminated
at the source; this is a fundamental principle of occupational health and safety.
In the case of repetitive strain injuries, the prime source
of injury is continuous repetitive and static flexion of the fingers and hands
in a unidirectional (one way) motion. ( i.e. Mouse use, typing,
writing, gripping work tools, etc.) Other components, such as applied force,
fixed body position, and the pace of work requiring repetitive movements are
also contributing factors in becoming afflicted with a disabling repetitive
strain injury.
Therefore the main effort to protect workers from repetitive
strain such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, cubital tunnel and other
injuries should focus on "limiting" or “counteracting" repetitive
and static flexion activities that require overuse of the flexor muscles of
the hand and forearm. If left unchecked, repetitive and static finger and wrist
flexion eventually leads to muscle imbalance and the onset of one of the many
debilitating repetitive strain injuries listed above.
Protection against repetitive strain injuries can be achieved
through the implementation of workplace protocols that involve the following:
- Job/task
rotation
- Individual-specific ergonomic work stations
- Quick Breaks
- Stretch / exercise programs to maintain structural integrity
and muscle balance of the entire upper extremity. ( i.e. Fingers,
hands, wrists, forearms, elbows, upper arms, and shoulder.)
If you are beginning to suffer from a repetitive strain injury at work, be
sure to consult your company's employee health director for assistance in establishing
the protocols listed above in order to keep the injury from progressing any
further.
Remember that prevention is a lot cheaper than rehabilitation,
both physically and financially!
