RSI - Repetitive Strain Injury

Originally coined by the media, 'RSI' (Repetitive Strain Injury) is a generic term used to cover a range of specific disorders of the musculoskeletal system (Type 1 RSI). RSI is also used to describe Non-Specific Pain Syndrome 'diffuse-RSI' (NSPS) and ULD (Upper Limb Disorders). This however is not strictly correct, because RSI only really describes how a problem was caused rather than naming problem.

Research in America has shown that for every dollar invested in an RSI prevention policy in an office environment there is a return of $17.80

RSI/Upper Limb Disorders conditions occur in both upper and lower limbs as well as affecting the spine in various areas, which in turn can cause referred pain into the limbs, making diagnosis difficult. Symptoms of numbness, tingling, sharp pain, dull ache, weakness, loss of grip and restricted movement of limbs can render people incapable of carrying out the simplest of tasks, at home or at work resulting in time off work or in the more extreme cases loss of job and court cases.

Unscrupulous legal companies are even targeting employees and trying to encourage them to complain and seek compensation. (Search RSI on Google and look at the sponsored links!)

A simple Worksafe UK One-to-One Risk Assessment helps reduce RSI risk dramatically by making sure that poor work practice is observed and noted. Better practices are then suggested.