Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) can happen in different parts of the body where there has been a repeated movement going on for some time. Activities such as typing, texting, hairdressing and some sorts involve a lot of movements being repeated.
While it's good to keep busy and active, too much of one movement for too long can cause RSI. This is where you'd feel a burning, aching, throbbing pain. Movements can become very hard and painful. RSI usually occurs in the shoulders, elbows, forearms and wrists and hands.
Symptoms of RSI
Here's some things to look out for if you suspect you have RSI:
- Feelings of stiffness or weakness in the affected area
- Swelling and redness
- Burning, aching or throbbing sensation
- Muscle cramps
What to do
- You may be tempted to want to reduce your level of activeness and get some rest, but resting too much can cause for the injured area to become weaker and stiffer. Stay as active as you can.
- Use hot and old compression
- Take painkillers such as Ibruprofen which is an anti-inflammatory and can help to reduce pain.
- Assuming pain is in the wrist, use a wrist support. You can find this at any pharmacy including Boots and Superdrug. These provide support to your wrist while at the same time helping to reduce pain, swelling and tenderness.
- If RSI symptoms continue for more than a couple of weeks, it may be worth seeing your GP and get their advice on this.
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