According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), repetitive strain injuries affect some 1.8 million workers per year.
A repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a gradual buildup of damage to tendons, muscles, or nerves from repetitive motions. These repetitive motions can eventually lead to issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, tennis elbow, or tendonitis.
Although RSI can happen to anyone, work related repetitive strains are especially a concern. RSIs are common in any job where there is repetitive motion such as using a computer, typing, working on an assembly line, or swiping items at checkout. The following can increase your risk for RSI:
- Holding the same posture or abnormal posture for long stretches of time
- Lifting heavy objects
- Stressing the same muscles repetitively
- Prior injury or condition
Repetitive strain injuries commonly occur in the back, neck, and upper limbs. Symptoms can include pain, tenderness, swelling, stiffness, tingling, throbbing and weakness. Symptoms will usually begin gradually, intensify, and become more constant - limiting your ability to perform your job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, work-related RSI’s are the most common reason for lost or restricted work time.
There is no “quick fix” for RSI, but there are effective treatments and preventative measures that can be taken. RSI symptoms are first treated through conservative methods. Physical therapy can help treat repetitive strain injuries through targeted exercises, stress reduction, and relaxation training. Your doctor and physical therapist can also suggest modifications to your movements or adjustments to your work area to minimize physical strain and stress.
Whatever your job, repetitive motions can gradually cause damage to tendons, muscles, or nerves. Prevention and early intervention can help you combat the effects of RSI and help you stay on the job.
If you are experiencing pain from a repetitive strain injury, call ACE Rehab Physical Therapy Specialists today at
(703) 204-0533.