Introduction
The RSI syndrome (Repetitive Strain Injury) is a kind of collective term for a variety of ailments and pain originating from nerves, vessels, muscles, tendons and trigger points. It mainly refers to complaints caused by repetitive and stereotypical (constantly repeating) movements and work in the forearm and hand. Often there are several causes for the RSI syndrome.
In the German linguistic usage this syndrome is also often known as mouse arm. In the past, it was called tendovaginitis (inflammation of the tendon sheath). Today we know that it is rather a chronic defect of the tendons – a so-called tendinosis.
Causes
One of the main causes for the development of RSI syndrome is repetitive work at the desk. Nowadays a lot of people work at the computer for almost the whole working day. The equipment of the workplace and the sitting posture of those affected are usually not ideal and therefore lead to long-term complaints in the back, neck and also in the arms.
When working at the computer, many thousands of tiny movements and clicks occur throughout the day. All in all, this puts a great deal of strain on the forearm and finger muscles and tendons. Furthermore, compensatory movements and regular breaks are missing.
In combination with an incorrect sitting posture, it can also lead to a reduced supply of oxygen to the forearms. In addition, the keyboard and mouse are not ergonomically aligned in most patients. In the typical mouse and keyboard, the hand is permanently bent and does not rest on a ball rest.
This represents a permanent irritant state throughout the working day. Another factor that should not be underestimated is stress. Those affected may not even be aware of it and thus have a permanent unconscious state of tension. This also affects the tone of the muscles.
Symptoms
Patients suffering from RSI syndrome often report pain in the hands, forearms, neck or even back. These are described as stabbing and pulling. These pains can be acutely severe and can lead to the inability to work.
Often these pains have become stronger over months and years or have been perceived more consciously. Furthermore, a worsening can be present throughout the working day. This means that the longer you have been working at your desk or computer, the more problems and discomfort you experience.
In addition to the pain, tingling, sensitivity disorders, numbness or stiffness of the fingers and their joints can also occur. Additionally, there is the possibility of tension and pain in the neck, shoulder and head area. In addition to the purely physical symptoms, many patients experience severe strain and stress at work. The occurrence of psychological problems can be both a symptom and part of the cause of the occurrence of an RSI syndrome.
