Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) describes an injury caused by overuse. Repetition of the same movement or action over and over causes inflammation and eventually, damage to muscles, tendons, and nerves. They most commonly affect wrists, fingers, and forearms, but can also affect other body parts like knees, ankles, hips, and shoulders.
RSI can be a type of chronic pain, sometimes causing debilitating effects on a patient. Physiotherapy can help to alleviate the symptoms of RSI, which can include:
- Burning, aching, or shooting pain
- Fatigue
- Tremors or numbness
- Weakness
- Difficulty with regular daily activities
- Chronically cold hands
- Stiffness or throbbing
Common Repetitive Strain Injuries
RSI causes can vary widely, but are most commonly associated with certain professions or hobbies. Repetitive activities and actions like lifting, drilling, carrying heavy loads, and poor posture can all lead to repetitive strain injuries. Performing repetitive activities in cold temperatures can also affect RSI development.
Some of the most common RSI treated by physiotherapy are:
If you work in an industry or position that includes factors causing RSI, you should always ensure you take rests throughout your work day or activity, warm up before participating, ensure proper posture, and maintain and active and healthy lifestyle. This can help to keep RSI at bay.
Physiotherapy can also be used before an RSI develops as part of a prevention plan. Certain exercises can help the bones, muscles, and tendons recover from repetitive actions and prevent the development of an RSI completely.
Contact Physio Art
If you suffer from repetitive strain injuries, Physio Art Rehabilitation can help. We offer custom treatment plans to help reduce fatigue, stiffness, and pain associated with strain injuries.
We understand that repetitive strain injuries can cause difficulties with daily activities and functioning. At Physio Art, we strive not only to help alleviate these difficulties, but return you to your regular level of functioning pre-injury. You don’t have to let your strain injury control your life!
Contact Physio Art today to book your Hamilton physiotherapy appointment and start alleviating your symptoms today.
