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R.S.I., or Repetitive Strain Injury (also called repetitive stress injury or typing injury) is caused by poor posture or repetitive motions and is quite common among computer users. It affects muscles, tendons and nerves in the arms and upper back.

The lack of adequate rest and breaks can lead to multiple injures like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tendinitis, Bursitis etc.

The symptoms may vary, but the main include:

• Recurring pain in the neck, shoulders, upper back, wrists or hands, associated with using the computer.
• Tingling, numbness, coldness or loss of sensation in the hands.
• Loss of grip strength, weakness, fatigue, loss of coordination.
• Pain or numbless that wakes you up at night.

During the first phase of RSI development, the pain usually increases during the day and as the working week progresses, and disappears during the night or the weekend. Prevention is most effective at this stage.

During the second, advanced phase, the pain is not anymore associated with a particular task, but with everything. There may be also some loss of strength. Symptoms no longer disapper during the night or the weekend. If you are at this stage, seek medical advise immediately.

During the last (permanent) phase of RSI the pain is persistent and makes any physical activity almost impossible. At this stage treatment has only limited success.

RSI is best prevented while in its early stages, before it becomes difficult to control.

• Pay attention to pain and fatigue. Stop using the computer before you begin to feel the symptoms
• Taking regular breaks to stretch and relax is crucial for preventing RSI from developing. Use both short breaks every few minutes and longer breaks every hour or so. Using of reminder software like WorkPause is highly recommended.
• Pay attention to posture and wrist position. Avoid resting your wrists on anything when typing. Keep your head and back straight.

• R.S.I Page
• Wikipedia RSI page
• RSI-Relief
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fact Sheet