Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is related to the overuse of muscles and tendons in the upper body, especially the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, back or neck.
Things that can put you at risk of RSI include:
- repetitive activities
- doing an activity for a long time without rest
- doing an activity that involves force, such as lifting heavy objects
- poor posture or activities that require you to work in an awkward position
Cold temperatures and vibrating equipment are also thought to increase the risk of getting RSI and can make the symptoms worse. Stress can also be a contributing factor.
RSI is most commonly caused by a repeated action carried out on a daily basis. A variety of jobs can lead to RSI, such as working at an assembly line, at a supermarket checkout or typing at a computer.
If you use a computer at work you may experience a typical RSI condition called writer's cramp. This is when the repetitive action of typing on the computer causes painful symptoms in your hands, such as a throbbing pain.
It is important that your working environment, for example your desk space, is laid out so that you can work comfortably. Your employer is under a legal duty to try to prevent work-related RSI and ensure that anyone who already has the condition does not get any worse.
Read more about workplace health and preventing repetitive strain injury (RSI).
