Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

There can be no disputing the fact that the number of people exhibiting the symptoms of R.S.I. has recently reached epidemic proportions.

It is also true to say that the epidemic appears to have increased roughly in proportion to the rise in the use of word processors and desk-top computers. Public awareness has been fuelled by trade unions concerned for the well-being of their members since, in its extreme form, R.S.I. can mean its victims have to give up a particular line of work.

The condition features disabling hand and arm pain, stiffness and an inability to continue to perform a particular function, especially the use of a computer keyboard.

The Orthodox Approach

The quandary for the medical profession is that R.S.I. excludes any diagnosable cause of symptoms such as tenosynovitis (inflammation of the tendons), because, if such a condition is found, then that is what is treated and there is no need to call it by any other name. The usual advice to patients presenting R.S.I. – type symptoms is to cease the repetitive action that is causing the problems. If this is impossible due to economic necessity, your physician may suggest looking at any underlying factors, such as anxiety, that can be corrected. Occasionally, a mechanical support may be suggested and, in extreme cases, antispasmodic or sedative drugs may be used. Many physicians suggest performing exercises to strengthen, stretch and relax the affected muscles.

The Hale Approach

As with most structural problems, physiotherapists, osteopaths and chiropractors are generally better trained than doctors. Initial assessment should be made by specialists such as these, and only if the condition does not respond to initial treatment should an orthodox opinion, perhaps from an orthopaedic specialist, be obtained.

Ergonomic Assessment

Optimal working postures can prevent or help to eliminate work-related neck, back, arm, hand and leg pain. Incorrect working postures, positions or using equipment that doesn't fit you well can cause these conditions, which may also be associated with stress. If you associate your work with musculoskeletal pain, you may well benefit from an Ergonomic Assessment at work.

Please see the Physiotherapy section of the website for details.

Tuina and Acupuncture

Tuina rates equally with acupuncture and herbal medicine in the Chinese system and is used for the control of chronic pain and the maintenance of good health. Like acupuncture, it achieves its effects by balancing the intrinsic energies of the body. It is a robust, vigorous and deep treatment that contributes strongly to the “feel good“factor.

Marma Massage

Shiatsu

According to Shiatsu practitioners, the colon meridian is usually blocked in cases of R.S.I., indicating that poor elimination of waste is affecting the movement of the muscles. Specific techniques are used to relieve the build-up of toxicity which results.

Osteopathy

The osteopath will always check for postural problems in the R.S.I. sufferer. Determining how a person sits, stands or moves at the time the strain is occurring can be crucial in formulating a recovery program. The position of the neck vertebrae in sitting can affect the nerves that serve the arms and hands of the computer operator, for instance, and if R.S.I. is diagnosed, osteopathic treatment will be given to those parts of the spine.

A build-up of lactic acid in the muscles in the arms can also aggravate R.S.I. An osteopath would advise on reducing your intake of acidic foods, and specific manipulation would be used to reduce toxicity. In some cases the use of supports and strappings would be advocated.

Supportive Treatments

Aromatherapy

R.S.I. is a multi-factorial muscular and joint dysfunction, according to one aromatherapist. Deep massage and mobilization of the joints using anti-arthritic and detoxifying essential oils in combination with anti-inflammatory essential oils and base oils in combination with anti-inflammatory essential oils and base oils greatly reduce pain and discomfort. The massage, using acupressure and neuromuscular techniques, helps to relax the muscles and calm the nervous system, at the same time stimulating the flow of blood and chi (intrinsic) energy. Diet is assessed to eliminate allergens which may be causing the symptoms and to improve nutrition to aid tissue repair.