In this weeks Topic, the first of two parts discusses Repetitive Strain Injury - causes and suggested treatment
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Repetitive Strain Injury
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is an injury caused by repetitive use of muscles. I will shorten the term repetitive strain injury to RSI for this article. It usually occurs in the back, shoulders, arms, wrists and hands. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be undertaking heavy manual work such as drilling or shovelling to develop RSI. Most RSIs are caused by seemingly safe jobs such as writing, using a computer or packing boxes. The most important factor is that the activity is continuous, usually for a long period of time.
Causes
Causes include: The overuse of muscles in hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck and back; Repeated actions, which are usually performed on a daily basis over a long period; The use of vibrating equipment; The repetitive actions are done in a cold place; Forceful movements are involved; Workstations are poorly organised; Equipment is badly designed; Adopting an awkward posture for long periods of time; Not enough rest breaks.
How common is repetitive strain therapy?
The increased use of computers and other technology involving a large amount of keyboarding has greatly increased RSI. According to a study by Microsoft®, recent rises in RSI cases is due to the fact more employees now use laptops, IPADs and mobile phones while out of the office and while on the move. Their study found that 68% of employees suffered from aches and pains, with the most common symptoms being back ache, shoulder pain and pains in hands and wrists as a result of working in cramped or awkward positions while in transit.
Sports and Injury Massage Therapist
Mark Scally is an experienced sports massage therapist, working with Westmeath Hurling Camogie and Football teams who is based at Whelehans Pharmacy Pearse St Mullingar.
Treatments include:
- Deep tissue and injury recovery massage
- Trigger point relief
- Sports and injury massage
- Soft tissue and joint mobilisation
- Musculoskeletal and athletic injury therapy
Appointments available:
- Monday morning 11 to 1pm.
- Thursday morning 11 to 1pm.
- Most evening's Monday to Thursday 6.30pm to 9pm
Contact Mark by telephone 0872524653 or email mark.scally@hotmail.com for appointments or any queries. We follow COVID-19 Prevention Guidance
To be continued next week…. I will discuss prevention and treatment of RSIs.
For comprehensive and free health advice and information call in to Whelehans, log on to www.whelehans.ie or dial 04493 34591 (Pearse St) or 04493 10266 (Clonmore). Find us on Facebook.