RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury), also called CTD (Cumulative Trauma Disorder) or Mouse Arm in popular Danish,
refers to pain or injury caused by actions that use a part of the body,
such as arms and hands,
over and over in the same way for a long period of time,
especially when the body stays in a relatively static position*. RSI refers to a family of specific diagnoses, such as carpal tunnel, epicondylitis, etc. Most people who have an acute episode of pain, a relatively short-lived symptom (i.e., less than 2-3 weeks), get better relatively quickly if proper prevention and conservative care are followed. Many patients thereafter may have mild episodic discomfort which is transient. This is often a function of amount of exposure and usually can be managed effectively through ergonomic modification and proper pacing of work.
*) Muscles under static or near static tension over prolonged periods are likely to suffer from deprivation of fresh blood. This deprivation appears to cause longterm and even permanent damage.
How do I know if I have RSI?
Some symptoms to watch for include the following:
burning, aching or shooting pain in the fingers, hands, forearms or neck and shoulders
general weakness in the hands and forearms
tingling, numbness or loss of sensation in hands or arms
difficulty opening and closing hands or using them, stiffness or clumsiness
hypersensitivity to touch, especially after minimal use of hands or arms
sensitivity and/or pain in the shoulder(s) or lower back
If you have any of these symptoms, especially over time or after computer use or prolonged writing, see a physician.
