Treatments, options and pricing
Common Q&A about Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Management
Our FAQ section is designed to address common questions you may have, from how our treatments work to what you can expect during and after your session.
Our team is always available to provide additional support if you need more personalised guidance, ensuring that you feel informed and confident every step of the way.
RSI refers to a group of conditions caused by repetitive movements or overuse of muscles, tendons, and nerves, commonly affecting areas like the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, and neck. It often develops gradually due to repetitive tasks, poor posture, or extended periods of activity without rest.
Common symptoms of RSI include pain, stiffness, throbbing, tingling, numbness, weakness, and reduced range of motion in the affected area. Symptoms may worsen with continued activity and improve with rest but can become chronic without proper management.
Any job or activity that involves repetitive movements can increase the risk of RSI, including computer work, typing, factory work, playing musical instruments, gaming, and some physical sports or hobbies like painting, knitting, or gardening.
To prevent RSI, it’s important to:
- Take regular breaks from repetitive tasks.
- Use proper posture and ergonomics.
Perform stretching and strengthening exercises. - Ensure your workspace is set up correctly (e.g., keyboard and screen height).
- Avoid prolonged static positions.
Ergonomics involves designing your workspace, tools, and tasks to fit your body’s needs, reducing strain on muscles and joints. Proper chair height, keyboard placement, wrist support, and screen height can help reduce the risk of RSI by promoting a more natural posture.
Diagnosis of RSI is typically made through a physical examination and discussion of symptoms. A doctor may ask about your job or activities, the nature of the pain, and any aggravating factors. In some cases, imaging tests or nerve conduction studies might be used to rule out other conditions.
Treatment for RSI may include:
- Rest and avoiding the repetitive activity.
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
- Applying ice or heat to reduce inflammation.
- Anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers.
- Splints or braces to support the affected area.
Ergonomic adjustments to your workspace or tasks.
Recovery time for RSI varies depending on the severity of the condition and how quickly it is treated. Mild cases may improve within weeks with proper rest and treatment, while more severe cases can take months. Some people with chronic RSI may need ongoing management to control symptoms.
Yes, specific exercises can help manage RSI by strengthening the muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting better posture. Stretching and strengthening exercises, particularly for the wrists, forearms, and shoulders, can relieve tension and improve blood flow, which aids in healing.
You should seek medical attention if you experience persistent pain, tingling, or numbness that interferes with your daily activities or if symptoms worsen despite rest. Early intervention can prevent the condition from becoming chronic and more difficult to manage.
