4 Easy Ways to Prevent Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Citation:©[sebra]/Adobe Stock

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) describes the pain one feels in their muscles, nerves, and tendons after they perform a repetitive task for long hours. RSI is especially prominent at the workplace, particularly in an office setting. Whether you’re working on a computer all day or are nearing retirement, taking care of your health at all times is crucial.

If you sit at a desk for most of the day and aren’t careful, you could overwork your muscles—which could result in a loss of strength, throbbing, and tenderness. Thankfully, there are a few easy ways to prevent repetitive strain injury at the office.

Change Your Typing Position

There are many ways to type on a keyboard. But, to help prevent injury, you should type in a neutral position. To type in a neutral position, simply place your hands on the keyboard and rest your wrists on the tray. Do not bend your wrists toward your pink fingers or thumbs. Your keyboard should also be flat and parallel to your elbow.

Get New Computer Peripherals & Accessories

Poorly designed keyboards are another common cause of RSI. The good news is that there are plenty of ergonomic keyboards on the market that will feel good and naturally combat repetitive strain injury. You might also want to invest in a wrist rest. It will help prevent pain and keep your wrists in the right position. You can even find ergonomic keyboards in a variety of designs and that have all kinds of bells and whistles.

Take a Break

Taking a break will give your muscles time to rest and recuperate. During this time, make sure you stretch and wiggle your fingers. Stretching your fingers, wrists, arms, and shoulders can help prevent injury.

Develop Good Posture

Good posture is something everyone can work on. Sit up straight, place your feet flat on the floor, adjust your chair if necessary, and make sure your monitor is straight ahead.

Though RSI can be painful and downrite annoying, it’s important to note that falls are extremely dangerous for those in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. In fact, falls are the number one cause of death for adults 65 and older. Whether it’s at home, the office, or while you’re out and about — please be careful at all times!