RSI (or Repetitive Strain Injury) is a descriptive term for an overuse injury.Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS) is another name used to describe RSI.
Repeated use of the same movements causes inflammation and damage to the soft tissues (muscles, nerves, tendons and tendon sheaths etc.) In particular, RSI has been attributed to upper limb and forearm pain.
Common RSI Symptoms:
Burning, aching or shooting pain.
Tremors, clumsiness and numbness.
Fatigue or lack of strength.
Weakness in the hands or forearms. It is often difficult to perform even simple tasks.
Difficulty with normal activities like opening doors, chopping vegetables, turning on a tap.
Chronically cold hands, particularly the fingertips.
Treatment:
Management will mainly involve getting a work place ergonomic assessment done by a physiotherapist to recognise faulty patterns and incorporate correct positioning and techniques. Massage, ultrasound, stretching and strengthening exercises are beneficial too. In severe cases splinting might be required.