The Risks of Repetitive Strain Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Do you work with your hands? You may be at risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), RSIs cost businesses over $20 billion in workers' compensation costs per year. If you develop an RSI, you may have to take time off work to rest and recover. Even then, you may suffer from a loss of productivity upon returning to work. What are RSIs exactly, and how do you prevent them?

What Are RSIs?

RSIs are injuries that occur as a result of repetitive movements or overuse of a part of the body. They typically involve the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck or back. If you move or use these parts of your body in the same way over an extended period, you may develop an RSI. RSIs can develop gradually over an extended period. When left unchecked, they can manifest in the form of pain, discomfort, weakness, and numbness in the affected area of your body.

Examples of RSis include:

• Pulled muscles
• Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)
• Tendonitis
• Tennis elbow
• Shin splints

How to Prevent RSIs

There are several things you can do to prevent RSIs. Maintaining good posture will lower your risk of developing RSIs. Don't slouch when sitting. If you work at a desk, adjust your chair so that you are able to sit comfortably upright.

Taking frequent breaks can lower your risk of developing RSIs. Working for long periods without any breaks between will only expose your body to excessive stress. All of this physical stress can lead to RSIs. Most experts recommend taking short breaks every 20-30 minutes to stretch and move around. By taking frequent breaks, you'll be better protected against RSIs.

Task rotation is essential to preventing RSIs in the workplace. Task rotation means shifting the job duties and tasks of workers. When a particular worker is required to perform the same task over and over, he or she may develop an RSI. Task rotation will change the tasks to which workers are assigned, resulting in a lower risk of RSIs.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) can also help prevent RSIs. Workers who perform manual labor, such as handling heavy objects, should use PPE. PPE encompasses gloves, hat hats, boots and all other forms of wearable equipment that are designed to protect workers from injuries or illnesses.

In Conclusion

Don't let RSIs restrict or interfere with your ability to work. Take precautions to protect yourself from RSIs.