Repetitive Strain Injury: The Facts

Rates over the years (% of all workplace injuries)

• 2015/16: 41%
• 2014/15: 44%
• 2013/14: 42%
• 2012/13: No Data
• 2011/12: 41%
• 2010/11: 44%

Who's at Risk?

• Agriculture Workers: Repeat wrist twisting (such as weeding) can strain tendons and tissue
• Anyone at a computer: Typing and moving a mouse around aggravates the same muscles repeatedly
• Video Gamers: Constantly hammering away at a controller or keyboard can quickly wear on tendons and muscles
• Builders: Repeated wrist turning, such as layering on mortar, easily makes wrists sore and painful

Symptoms on the Hand and Wrist

• Numbness that makes holding items difficult
• Weakness in your hands or forearms
• Swelling to the affected area
• Aches in your wrist joint
• Tenderness in your muscles and joints
• Pain in your muscles and joints

Stages of RSI

• Stage 1 (Mild): Symptoms only show during the working day
• Stage 2 (Moderate): Symptoms show earlier in the working day
• Stage 3 (Severe): Symptoms are constant, even away from work
• Type 1: Specific and clear damage to tissue (swelling, inflammation, et cetera)
• Type 2: General pain and discomfort with no clear external signs

Causes of RSI

• Repetitive activities that overuse your muscles
• Poor posture reduces blood circulation to your arms
• Cold temperatures brought on by drafts or air conditioning
• Stress can increase muscle tension
• Carrying heavy loads repeatedly over a long period
• Smoking can adversely affect blood flow

Cost of RSI to Employers

​RSI is easily manageable if caught early. Refusing to acknowledge the condition or doing the bare minimum to alleviate it can lead to high costs, including:

• Lost productivity amounting to £300 million per year
• Sick days for recovery and hospital visits
• Fees must be pain to employee if at fault
• Paying and training temporary employees

5.4 million working days are lost in sick leave

6 workers per day lose their jobs forever because of RSI

Prevention

• Stand up and stretch regularly. Set reminders if you can't remember yourself
• Make sure your workstation is ergonomically optimised
• Quit smoking to help restore blood flow
• Take a break if you're feeling tired; don't wait for symptoms to begin
• Eat and drink nutritious food to aid muscle memory
• Exercise regularly and stay in good shape

Learn Keyboard Shortcuts to Reduce Typing or Using the Mouse

Posture

• Keep your wrists and forearms straight and level with the floor
• Your screen should be an arm's length away
• Eyes should be level with the top of the screen
• Make sure your lower back is supported
• Rest your feet on the floor