It might seem logical that repetitive strain injury (RSI) is caused by doing the same things over and over. But that’s not the whole story.
Because it’s not just the repetitive movement–it’s repetitive movement done incorrectly.
Sometimes poor working positions are unavoidable. For example, a plumber who works on his back under sinks and does a lot of those installations cannot just decide to work in a different location. Nor can the person who’s insulating crawl spaces where you barely have room to move. Neither can mothers who are holding babies all day long. Stuff like that.
Sometimes you can create
a better working position.
Fit your work area to you instead of trying to fit what’s already there.
If you have to supply your own chair, footstool, lift, table, or whatever to help you be in a more ergonomic position when you work, do it. You are worth it!
If the boss won’t (or can’t) then you do it. Your health and well-being are worth it.
Sometimes you can create a “better” body which is more able to resist injury.
Doing the same thing over and over–in front of your body–causes repetitive strain if your back is weak. If your back muscles cannot “hold their own” you will suffer. When your back side is strong, working in strange positions will hurt you less.
If you already have symptoms of numbness or pain or tingling, you can change your position (be creative and think about all of the possible ways.)
You can change your body by strengthening your back.
And you can begin a self-help program.
Educate yourself, be creative, apply what you learn, eat healthy foods that support your body, drink enough water, and explore your muscles to find out where they are tight (which may not be where your symptoms are!) Taking these steps can help you get rid of your repetitive strain injury.