Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) are a group of conditions affecting the most used joints in the body, mostly in the elbow, wrist and shoulder. These strains are mainly job related, and could happen to everyone from desk workers to tradespeople. The most common RSI’s are 

Tennis Elbow: Pain and discomfort on the outside of the elbow, common in workers that sit at a desk typing/using mouse or tradespeople doing repetitive work with tools such as drills and hammers.  

Carpal Tunnel: Pain across the front of the wrist. You can also have pins and needles and numbness during the night with this condition. Commonly a splint or brace overnight can help 

De Quervain’s synovitis: Pain across the thumb and wrist, common with repetitive activities that involve gripping.  

Rotator Cuff Strain: Pain across the top and back of the shoulder due to constant overhead use of the arms, like while painting, hedge trimming and pick packing professions. Can also occur with lifting based injuries such as warehouse workers, parents lifting children.  

All of these repetitive strain injuries require a slightly different approach to treatment. Some require bracing, manual therapy and rest, where some require stretches and exercises to assist with the discomfort. Seeking professional help with these conditions to get a tailored treatment plan for your injury is important to get you back pain free movement.