How Good Posture Can Prevent RSI

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a very common complaint of computer users, musicians and athletes. It is the term used to refer to a range of conditions caused by repetitive hand activities. RSI symptoms include hand pain, wrist pain and elbow pain, and often cause tingling and numbness, as well. What many people don’t realize, however, is that RSIs are preventable.

RSI Prevention

There are a number of ways to prevent Repetitive Strain Injuries. One of the most important is simply being aware of the amount of time you are spending at the offending task, and taking frequent breaks from it. For example, computer use injury is the most common form of RSI, because so many office workers spend all day typing at a computer. For these RSI sufferers, it is critical to mix your non computer related tasks in throughout the day, and to take frequent breaks when you must be at the computer. It’s also important to try and get a good long break each day for recovery. For this reason, it’s wise not to go home and spend the evening surfing the Internet, if you’ve spent the entire day at the computer.

Proper Computer Posture

One of the number one ways you can prevent RSI is by correcting your sitting posture. Sit with your torso upright and your feet either flat on the floor, or on a footrest. Check the ergonomics at your workstation, making sure your chair is positioned properly at the appropriate height, and that the back is positioned to promote good posture. You may need to place a pillow at the small of your back to help keep you sitting up straight.

Make sure that your computer screen is at eye level, so that you don’t have to look up or down to see it, and that you are able to hold your head and neck in a comfortable position. Check and reset your head position so it is not inching forward ever closer to the computer screen.

Make sure that you keep your hands flat and parallel to the keyboard when you type. Wristpads are great for resting your wrists when you are not typing, but should not be used to support your hands when you are typing.

In addition to making sure that you sit correctly, you must also make sure that you don’t sit too long. One important factor in preventing RSI is taking frequent breaks. Get up from your desk, stretch your neck, back and arms, and walk around. In addition, don’t spend more time at your desk during the day than is necessary. Eat lunch somewhere else, and walk over to talk to a co-worker rather than calling them or sending an email.

What if I Already Have RSI?

If you do find yourself experiencing RSI pain, see your doctor. Your RSI treatment plan will likely include anti-inflammatory medications combined with physical therapy treatments. These treatments can be highly effective at relieving symptoms of RSI and preventing future incidences.