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Beware of Computer Related RSI

rsi

We use our hands to eat, work, and play. They are extremely intricately designed instruments of flexibility, creativity and productivity. BUT, when they are damaged, we are anguished. Life is altered dramatically in ways we do not expect, and the road to healing and recovery is humbling.

computer related - rsi 2As a certified hand therapist, I hear this story often. It may be a little ache, pain in their elbow, forearm, maybe their wrist, or even just one finger. They ignore it, thinking it subside on its own. Over time, it becomes more nagging, and may affect how long they can type on a keyboard or use a mouse. It is insidious and reaches a point where they realize it is not going away. This may lead to an injury called RSI.

What is RSI?

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) occur from repeated physical movements that leads to damage to tendons, muscles, soft tissues, and ultimately nerves. The rise of computer use and flat, light-touch keyboards that allow high speed typing have resulted in an epidemic of injuries to hands, arms and shoulders. The thousands of repeated keystrokes and long periods of clutching and dragging with mice, as well as clicking the video game controller, slowly accumulates stress to the body and leads to this type of injury.

RSI - Computer RelatedThis is true for adults, and has found its way to our kids in this high technology age. Starting in elementary school, kids use computers for academics, from researching information on the internet, to writing papers and accessing school/academic websites . Both adults and kids also enjoy communicating through social media, watching YouTube, listening to music, creating their own blogs and videos, as well as playing their favorite video games. The list is extensive and almost endless. This is where they lose track of time as the focus and intensity draws them in for hours without realizing it.

Speaking of, I will take a rest break from the computer.   Look for my next article(s) regarding signs and symptoms, treatment, and also practical tips for prevention of this injury.

About the Author - Debbie

Debbie is our Occupational Therapist and also a Certified Hand Therapist who specializes in the treatment of hand and upper extremity injuries. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy at San Jose State University. She started specializing in Hand Therapy in 1988 and earned her Certification in Hand Therapy in 1991. She has an extensive background in orthopedics including working in a variety of outpatient hospital and hand therapy clinics. At a Southern California Orthopedic Institute with 20+ orthopedic surgeons, she worked closely with the three hand surgeons and supervised their hand therapy clinic with a staff of 4 therapists and 3 aides. She joined our team in 2008 and works at our Carlsbad and Vista clinics. She is trained in the Graston Technique and Maitland Soft Tissue Mobilization Techniques and has extensive experience in fabrication of custom splints. She enjoys exploring San Diego as well as traveling, biking, skiing and photography.