Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a painful, debilitating condition, which can be caused by different tasks at work, including forceful or repetitive activity, or by poor posture. Usually affecting parts of the upper body such as the forearm, elbow, wrists, hands, shoulders, and neck, RSI can be potentially life-changing. It usually results from such activities as frequent computer use, sitting for a long period or simply the act of writing things down. Unfortunately, not many people are aware of or understand how serious RSI can be.

To help you cope with RSI should you find yourself affected by it, below are four key ways to make a note of today.

Adjust your desk appropriately

The first step to prevent RSI, especially if you work in an office, is to set up your work desk and equipment to best suit your needs. You need to take into account your height in relation to the computer screen, as well as the position of your keyboard and mouse. Computer screens and standard keyboards are usually adjustable, meaning you can move them easily accordingly.

Workplaces may have workstation assessments to cover this and ensure that the office space is as safe as it can possibly be.

However, if you feel that your workplace or a failure in your employer’s part was the cause of your RSI, you may be legible to seek compensation. The first step would be to seek advice on how best to approach this with The Compensation Experts.

Take regular breaks

This point is particularly relevant to office workers who may spend most of their working day behind the desk typing away. Don’t forget to take regular breaks to not only rest your eyes from staring at a screen for too long but also to stretch your legs, prefer to use Shoulder Tape to reduce pain. Doing so will not only prevent the development of RSI but also reduce the likelihood of developing limb disorders and strains.

Finding a good doctor or therapist

Finding a good doctor or physical therapist to help you cope with RSI is certainly worth the time and money, especially if it brings a lot of pain or you feel it drastically affects your productivity.

It may prove a challenge as some doctors may doubt the existence of RSI or simply dismiss the condition. As a result, be aware and be selective when choosing a physician to ensure you do not undergo any unnecessary or dangerous surgeries for a quick fix. The best way may be to ask for referrals to good physical therapists and go from there.

Communicate with your company

If you find that your RSI is due to how your working schedule is arranged, speak to your manager or HR. They can then arrange to accommodate and help treat your condition best. Through this, they are also made aware of how the workplace works and how it can affect different individuals. The last thing a company wants is for employees to report dissatisfaction and discomfort in the workplace because it can taint their reputation. By communicating effectively with your company, you can help arrange whatever is necessary to accommodate your injury and even help future employees who may go through the same thing.

With these few things in mind, you can prevent and help treat the development of repetitive strain injury and a few pointers on what to do if it ever develops.