Do you feel pain in your wrists, neck or shoulders after a long day at work? You may be suffering from a repetitive stress injury, or RSI. RSIs are very common in the workplace, and they can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. It’s important to understand exactly what they are and how you can prevent them to stay healthy.

What are repetitive stress injuries?

Repetitive stress injuries are a type of injury that occurs when the body is repeatedly subjected to stress or strain. This can happen from performing the same motion over and over again, such as typing on a keyboard or using a mouse. It can also happen from holding your body in the same position for prolonged periods of time, such as when you’re working at a desk.

What are the effects of RSIs?

If you have a repetitive stress injury, you may experience pain, inflammation and stiffness in the affected area. You may also have difficulty moving your muscles and joints. The symptoms of RSIs can range from mild to severe depending on the type of injury. For example, carpal tunnel syndrome is a common type of RSI that affects the wrists and hands.

How can you prevent RSIs?

There are several things you can do to prevent repetitive stress injuries in the workplace. First, it’s important to take breaks often and move your body around regularly. This will help reduce the amount of strain on your muscles and joints.

Second, use ergonomic furniture and equipment that is designed to reduce stress on the body. This includes things like adjustable chairs, wrist rests and ergonomic keyboards. Finally, make sure to stretch your muscles and warm up before performing any repetitive tasks.

It’s important to remember that even if you do everything right, RSIs can still happen. If you start experiencing any symptoms, be sure to see a doctor and report the injury to your employer.