RSI Treatments

Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy

A therapeutic protocol for the relief and control of myofascial pain and dysfunction. The goal of treatment is the recovery from or a significant reduction in myofascial pain. The treatment goal is achieved through a systematized approach consisting of ischemic compression, location and correction of perpetuating factors, passive and active stretch techniques and a comprehensive home program. Success may be measured subjectively by the level of pain reduction experienced by the patient and objectively through increased range of motion, strength, endurance and other measures of improved function.

Physiotherapy

This involves mobilizing the neck and upper back, which are usually stiff in cases of RSI, together with 'neural stretches' to lengthen contracted nerves, which appear to cause pain in some forms of RSI.

Trigger Point Therapy

This is superficially similar to accupressure or shiatsu but also employs stretching and exercise. It immediately relaxes muscles that are in spasm, and can also help back ache and migraine. Some physiotherapists practise this in the UK, but a comprehensive book and self treatment tools are also available from the US.

Body Movements

Abduction

Moving away from the body.

Flexion

Movement of a joint that generally brings it closer to the midline of the body. When typing, flexion pulls the wrist downward and curves the fingers. Sit-ups are an example of flexion of the back. Flexion bends the knee and elbow. The palm is on the flexor side of the hand.

Extension

The opposite movement from flexion. When keying, extension moves the wrist upwards or back. Extension of the elbow or knee straightens the joint. A "back bend" is an example of extension of the back.

Hyperextension

An abnormal movement beyond the normal limit of extension, such as more than the 180 degrees of extension of the knee or elbow.

Ulnar Deviation of the Wrist

Turning the hands out, away from the center of the body. This awkward position is a risk factor for CTD. It is common in heavy keyboard users, since their elbows are necessarily out farther.

Radial Deviation of the Wrists

Turning the hands inward, toward the center of the body. This is a risk factor for CTD.

Pronation

Pronation of the wrists turns them palm side down, as in typing. Supination is the opposite.

Supination

Supination of the wrists turns them palm side up. Pronation is the opposite.

Pinch grip

The grip used for a pencil.

Overspanning

Opening the fingers our wide.

Power grip

The grip used for a hammer.

Body Parts

Ligament

A band of collagen fibers that connects bone to bone. An example is the transverse carpal ligament, which connects two carpal bones at the wrist, forming the roof of the carpal tunnel.

Nerve

Nerves provide sensory, motor, and automatic functions. The arm and hand are served by the ulnar, median, and radial nerves. Sensory feedback from the fingers affects the ability to grasp and manipulate items. When this sensory function is impaired, from cold or nerve compression, our hands become clumsy and manipulations become difficult. The nerves are a common site for CTDs. Nerve disorders can also be brought on by mechanical pressure. This pressure can be applied by badly designed tools or leaning against heard work surfaces.

Tendon

A flat fibrous structure in the body that connects a muscle to bone. They are composed of parallel collagen fibers and because they require little blood supply, they appear whitish, much like a ribbon. Tendons and tendon sheaths can become irritated from repeated exertions in certain postures, and from mechanical stress. Tendon disorders can affect the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder. Symptoms usually involve a dull ache, with occasional swelling, in the affected area. Moving or exerting force often makes these symptoms worse. Recovery from these conditions is often very slow.