Repetitive stress injuries are on the rise and one of the main reasons for this is due to the increased use of computers in the workplace. Across all career fields, RSI accounts for roughly 30% of all workplace injuries.
For those of us who spend most of our work day on the computer, that rate doubles to 60%. Any job that requires you to sit or stand in the same position for hours or repeat the same manual task can put you at risk to develop an RSI.
Symptoms of RSI
Often, symptoms of RSI come on gradually but if not treated properly when they do appear, RSI could lead to a musculoskeletal injury.
If you experience any of these symptoms, report the injury to your supervisor and seek medical attention:
- Cramping and stiffness
- Numbness, tingling, sore or tender sensations
- Lack of coordination and clumsiness
- Severe weakness and lack of muscular endurance
- Pain or burning sensations
RSI Prevention Tips
If you’re in a career that puts you at risk for RSI, follow these tips to prevent injury:
- Take small breaks often where you are able to stretch
- Give your limbs a break from repetitive motion
- Sit up straight
- Exercise on a regular basis to remain healthy and to loosen up your muscles and joints
- Position your laptop or computer keyboard properly: your forearms should be in a horizontal position and elbows at a 90 degree angle when you type
- If possible, transition to a standing desk for better support
If you have developed an RSI or other injury related to your job, you may qualify for workers’ compensation.
You can find further reading about workplace injuries – how they occur, how to prevent them, how workers’ compensation is decided – on our blog.