Workplace “Musts†to Avoid Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI's)
by: Jeff Anliker, LMT
Workplace “Musts†to Avoid Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI's)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) and other Repetitive Strain Injuries
(RSI's) affecting the upper extremity have increased to pandemic proportions
over the past 5 years.
The factors that contribute to repetitive strain injuries are
best addressed at the source; this is a fundamental principle of injury prevention.
In the case of carpal tunnel syndrome, the prime source of injury and its symptoms
is the continuous repetitive and/or static over use of the hands in a uni-directional
motion, such as extensive computer and mouse use, as well as repetitive motion
activities, such as writing and typing. Other components that increase chances
of a repetitive strain injury include applied force, fixed body positions and
the pace of the activities requiring repetitive motion.
Therefore the main effort to protect individuals from the symptoms
associated with carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive strain disorders
should focus on addressing those areas, which can be altered or adjusted, in
order to reduce the chances of becoming afflicted with a disabling upper extremity
condition.
The following factors contribute to the development of repetitive
strain injuries:
- Repetition: Long or concentrated hours of typing or use of the computer
mouse, especially if working aggressively to meet a deadline will increase
stress to the hands, wrists and elbows, contributing to the likelihood of
becoming afflicted with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), Tendonitis, Tennis
Elbow, Trigger Finger and more.
- Force: A computer mouse and keyboard require only a light
touch, so be aware of the amount of force you are using.
- Duration: The more hours you spend keyboarding or using the computer mouse,
the more likely it is that you will become afflicted with carpal tunnel or
some other form of repetitive strain injury.
- Posture: Long hours of sitting in the same position while keyboarding or
using a computer mouse will cause the onset of a repetitive strain disorder.
Be aware of your hand/wrist, shoulder, back and neck position while working.
- Breaks: Intensive hours at the keyboard with few breaks can cause extensive
stress to the hands, wrists and elbows. Be sure to take micro-breaks throughout
the day to perform stretches and exercises.
- Stretches / Exercises: Stretches and exercises must be
performed throughout the day to help keep the muscles agile, reducing the
chances of obtaining a repetitive stress injury like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Be sure to take all of these factors into account as you work
each day. Being aware of your surrounding will reduce the chance of developing
a repetitive strain that may end your career or keep you from doing the things
that you love.
Remember, YOUR health is in YOUR hands!
Jeff Anliker, LMT is a Therapist and Inventor of Therapeutic Products and Training Programs for Corporations, Consumers and Medical Facilities. repetitive-strain.com
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