We often hear about repetitive strain injuries at work, or joke that we think we’ve got one – but what happens if you do suffer such an injury? Repetitive strain injuries are caused when a muscle in the body is over used. Injuries like this usually occur in the muscles in the hands, wrists, arms or shoulders.
A typist is likely to be effected by such an injury due to the constant movement in their fingers. This can cause stress to the muscle tissues, and triggers the body to release chemicals which try to repair any damage done to the muscles. However, the prolonged repetitive movement in the fingers can outweigh the bodies attempt to repair itself. This is where the repetitive strain injury (RSI) becomes established.
A repetitive strain injury can take months or even years to appear – until this time it is likely that no symptoms will appear. Sufferers of an RSI are first notified by an ache or pain in area affected. The pain usually then gets worse or more intense when the person carries on using the damaged muscles. For example, the typist would feel more pain when typing.
If the person suffering from an RSI doesn’t seek medical attention at the first instance, the pain can become worse, and get more severe over time. They may begin to feel the most intense pain with the slightest movement of the affected area.
A repetitive strain injury is likely to be caused in the workplace if a person is spending long amounts of time using a computer keyboard or a mouse. Employers can help prevent such injuries from being developed by providing wrist supports for those using computers, and giving employees regular breaks from their computer workstation.
If you have suffered from a repetitive strain injury you should visit your GP – they will then be able to assess the injured area, and carry out the necessary arrangements in aiding your recovery. There are a number of treatments that will help you recover from a repetitive strain injury. These include:
- Elastic wrist supports or firm wrist splints
- Hot and cold packs
- Pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Rest of the affected area
If you have suffered a repetitive strain injury and believe your employer was at fault in causing the injury, then you may be able to make an injury compensation claim.
