The following information is a compilation of things I have read and experienced both as a patient and a field observer. It is by no means the most technically up-to-date and medically proven information. This study of ergonomics is developing rapidly and this may not be state-of-the-art/science by the time you read it.

On July 1, the National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) issued a major critical review of scientific literature pertaining to work-related musculoskeletal disorders of the neck, upper extremities and lower back. After reviewing more than 2,000 epidemiological studies and carefully analyzing 600, NIOSH has concluded that the greatest risk of musculoskeletaldisorders occurs in a small number of industries where workers face intense, prolonged exposure to several risk factors simultaneously.

Pinching and gripping with the hands, awkward bending of the wrists, elbows, and shoulders, and forceful overexertions of muscles and tendons contribute to repetitive strain illnesses (RSI). Any modification of an operation that reduces or eliminates these motions will benefit recovery. The following suggestions are meant to increase your awareness of less stressful methods of accomplishing daily activities, both at home and at work.

Use appropriate aids and tools to reduce use of hands or fingers, such as

• electric can openers to eliminate twisting pinch grip
• mechanical aids that use arm muscles rather than hands or fingers (jar openers)
• food processors or electric peelers to reduce grip and flexing
• speaker phones or head sets to eliminate holding
• automatic transmissions and power steering and windows
• padded and textured steering wheel covers to increase thickness and grip
• book and playing card holders to reduce pinch grip
• ergonomically designed tools for kitchen, shop, and gardening
• padded wrist mitts for warmth and reduced contact with surface

Date: Thu, 14 Sep 1995 14:53:37 -0700 (PDT) From: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (Mike Mossey) Subject: essay comparing Alex T. and Feldenkrais To: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Hi Dan,

Attached is an essay comparing my experiences with Alexander Technique and Feldenkrais Method. I submit it for consideration for inclusion in the typing injury archive.

I consider myself 95% healed from two years of constant RSI pain. I give a little bit of history in the essay, and explain a bit how Feldenkrais Method and Alexander Technique helped me. This essay does concentrate more on comparing the two methods than on describing them from scratch, but perhaps that is a good way to get across some of the concepts of "somatic education," something that can be extremely difficult to explain.

Muscle Spasms

Muscle Spasms Mimic Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome And Cause Repetitive Strain Injury

Zev M.Cohen, M.D.

Julie Donnelly, L.M.T.,

The Carpal Tunnel Treatment Center, New City, NY 845-268-2021

Do you suffer from chronic low back pain? Do your knees hurt when you go up the stairs, and your hands hurt when you try to open a jar? Do you experience headaches that feel like a bomb going off in your head? Do you get ringing in your ears? Have you been diagnosed as having carpal tunnel syndrome?