World Repetitive Strain Injury Day - 28th February 2018

RSI is a condition in which the prolonged performance of repetitive actions, typically with the hands, causes pain or impairment of function in the muscles involved. It is also known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). It is the most common type of injuries related to workers. 28 February is the day devoted to raising awareness of these types of injuries.  2018 marks the 18^th annual RSI awareness day.

The routine movements at work, for instance: clicking, twisting, bending, holding, moving, and lifting shouldn’t lead to pain. But when the same movements are performed abnormally or repeatedly, they may cause pain. This pain is usually felt in neck, shoulders, arms, wrist, and elbows. As a result, you feel discomfort and weakness. Other factors which contribute to RSI is fixed postures, uncomfortable body positions at work or word stress on arms, wrist.

On a practical note, it is not possible to avoid or stop the repetitive movements at work; the best you can do is to look for ways to either eliminate or ease the pain. A comfortable workstation adjustable to individual needs and different work postures can help to minimize the load. A workstation should be designed in a way to adjust the comfort level to the human body. The work where physical activity is involved, For instance in factories, the workers should be provided with advanced equipment to ease the load.

The most common spot which gets affected is the wrist. Out of 10 cases, seven was noticed to be the wrist as the affected part. The good part is most of the types of RSI’s are curable. All you need to do is get aware of the types, symptoms, and preventions. It’s important to track the symptoms and take actions. Initially, it may hurt only when you are working or moving the joint but the problem may lead to constant pain if it’s not treated on time. Few steps can be taken as an initiative to prevent RSI.

Steps on Worker’s Level:

•          Be a part of RSI awareness campaigns
•          Notice your symptoms on time.
•          If the pain is work-related, report the problem to higher authorities immediately.

Steps on Organizational Level:

• Workers should be trained on the causes and symptoms of RSI.
• Workers should be allowed to take short and frequent breaks.
• RSI patients should be compensated or medically facilitated by the organization.