Question

1-Explain what Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is and describe the most common causes.

2- Describe the available options used to reduce or prevent RSI in the workplace

Answer 1

Repetitive strain injury results from improper body mechanics or overuse resulting in damage to tendons,muscles and nerves. The most commonly affected area of RSI are neck,shoulders,forearm,upper arm and wrists. The most common causes of RSI are repetitive actions,vigorous exercises,usage of computers for long time,poor body mechanics resulting in over use of muscles.

RSI causes aching,numbing,stiffness and patient verbalizes the presence of constant pain. RSI is more common occupational muscular disorder for people working in industries like garment factory, package services, software professionals,nurses and doctors.

RSI due to work related are reduced by following proper body mechanic techniques, maintaining good posture while sitting,sleeping,standing and while doing day to day activities. Professionals working in computers can take breaks to prevent RSI, mouse can be replaced by using shortcut keys in keyboard to reduce strain in shoulders. People involved in lifting heavy objects should not overreach to take the object, must maintain centre of gravity and should bend at hips and knees instead of bending completed on the waist.