Information on repetitive strain injuries

In the absence of trauma, another major cause of wrist injury is overuse. This is particularly apparent in the computer operator population whereby overuse is common and arises from positions that strain the finger tendons and wrist flexor and extensor muscles repetitively

The diagnosis of repetitive strain injury (RSI) is often grouped together with other diagnoses such as carpal tunnel syndrome and lateral epichondylitis to describe Repetitive strain Injuries or Cummulative trauma disorder that frequent the workplace. Figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) showed that an estimated 2.8m working days were lost in 2007-8 due to RSI.

This is obviously very concerning and as such the ergonomics of these overuse problems have been studied intensively and technological advancements in design have been made with the aim to be proactive in reducing the onset of these conditions.

The cumulative trauma arises from repetitive fine hand movements which take place during activities such as typing. Longterm, this repetitive activity strains the muscles and tendons of the forearms, wrists, and fingers, causing microscopic tears.

As a result of tearing, the muscles bleed and subsequently, the muscles will become adaptively shortened and contracted. Overtime, further injury secondary to overuse will result in additional scarring and inflammation which in turn may have a knock on affect to the associated tendons and neighbouring nerve supply which may result in a gradual reduction in sensitivity in the hand and fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome) and pain.

Treatment for RSI

One of the key elements in establishing the causative factors for RSI is deciphering what activities have taken place to initiate symptoms in the first place. Often the patient has a history of prolonged computer use but despite overuse of the forearm muscles, often it is a faulty technique which has perpetuated this injury. Therefore often improvements can be made in the patients typing technique as well as workstation ergonomics to relieve some of the tension on the forearm musculature.

Another factor which needs to be considered is the patients posture. Improving your posture at your desk will help reduce further overload and strain. For additional information regarding correct workstation setup, please visit our posture page

At our London based chiropractic clinic, we will focus on improving the flexibility in the forearm musculature along with postural education and advice on specific tailored exercises. Evidence to support this type of treatment can be found below:

• Konijnenberg HS, de Wilde NS, Gerritsen AA, van Tulder MW, de Vet HC. Conservative treatment for repetitive strain injury. Scand J Work Environ Health. 2001 (Oct); 27(5): 299-310.

If you would like any further advice regarding RSI, please  contact us at the EC2 clinic.

In addition, our chiropractors are also qualified to advised on ergonomics and often visit workplaces to conduct display screen assessments  (DSE)