What should you know about repetitive strain injuries RSI?

RSI is a broad description rather than a single condition. It may involve the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, shoulder, neck, or another area used repeatedly at work, during sport, or in hobbies. Symptoms can include aching, burning, stiffness, tenderness, weakness, tingling, numbness, or reduced coordination. Repeated force, a fast pace, vibration, awkward posture, limited task variation, and a sudden increase in activity can all contribute. Named conditions such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, and Tennis Elbow may sit within the wider pattern, but similar symptoms can have other causes.

Identify the task that brings symptoms on and reduce its force, speed, duration, or frequency where possible. Alternate duties, keep tools close, support the forearm, and change posture regularly. Short movement pauses can be more useful than waiting until pain is severe. Do not immobilise an entire limb or abandon all activity without guidance; comfortable movement helps preserve function. A clinician can assess strength, sensation, movement, and task demands. Physiotherapy, exercise therapy, or a workplace ergonomic assessment may be appropriate depending on the findings.

Arrange medical review if symptoms persist, spread, recur after task changes, or affect sleep, grip, walking, or work. Seek urgent care for sudden weakness, loss of coordination, severe swelling, a cold or pale limb, or numbness that is rapidly worsening. Symptoms after a major injury need assessment even when repetitive work was also part of your routine.

Ask which structure may be involved, what task changes are realistic, whether nerve testing or imaging is needed, and how to progress exercises safely.