What should you know about repetitive strain injury types?

RSI, also called an overuse injury, can involve irritated tendons, compressed nerves, or muscles that are repeatedly asked to work without enough recovery. Wrist and hand examples include carpal tunnel syndrome and De Quervain's tenosynovitis. Elbow and forearm problems can include tennis elbow, while nerve irritation near the elbow can cause cubital tunnel syndrome. Tingling or numbness suggests nerve involvement; pain with gripping or thumb movement points toward a different pattern. Forearm Pain can occur alongside several of these conditions, so the symptom alone does not identify the cause.

Notice which task brings symptoms on, then reduce that particular load where possible. Alternate activities, take brief movement breaks, keep the wrist near neutral, and avoid gripping a mouse or tool more firmly than needed. A clinician or physiotherapist can check strength, sensation, movement and the way you work. Physiotherapy may use graded activity, mobility work and advice on returning to tasks. Exercise Therapy is usually tailored to the irritated area rather than copied from a generic routine. A Workplace Ergonomic Assessment can identify changes to the desk, input device, tools or workflow.

Arrange an assessment if symptoms keep returning, interfere with sleep or work, or do not settle after reducing the aggravating activity. Seek prompt care for new or worsening weakness, persistent numbness, loss of coordination, marked swelling, a visible deformity, or pain after a significant injury. Sudden inability to move the hand or arm needs urgent medical attention.

Which tissue or nerve seems involved? What activity should I modify first? Which movements are appropriate now, and what signs mean I should stop? Could my workstation or tool technique be contributing? When should my grip, sensation and strength be reassessed?