Therapy
The therapy or treatment of the RSI syndrome is largely based on the patient’s own work. Doctors, therapists or other affected persons can learn a variety of exercises for stretching, strengthening and mobilization suitable for everyday and workplace use, which prevent the progression of the disease. Furthermore, it is part of the therapy concept that the working time at the computer and desk must be reduced or distributed differently throughout the day.
The desk must be adapted to a more ergonomic posture of head, upper body and arms. In addition, occupational and physiotherapy can help with further tricks for relaxation and stretching. With physiotherapy, massages, mobilization and heat or cold treatments are included in the therapy concept.
In addition to the design of the workplace, the change of lifestyle during leisure time is also part of the therapy concept. Instead of sitting and lying down, it requires more movement through e.g. jogging, cycling, swimming or other sports that force a holistic movement and strengthening of the body. Pain medication (e.g. ibuprofen, diclofenac) can be used for short periods of time to treat the pain.
However, this should not be for longer phases, as this does not lead to a change in behaviour, but rather a fixation on the pain and its treatment with the appropriate medication. A further focus must be on reducing stress and strain.Learning relaxation exercises for the head and body can be especially helpful in difficult and stressful situations at work. Furthermore it is part of the therapy of the RSI syndrome that regular breaks, the corresponding activity, are demanded and kept.
Exercises
For the independent treatment of the, as well as the prevention, there is a variety of exercises and techniques. Basically, this includes regular and varied exercise. A central component of exercises are the stretching exercises of the hands and forearm.
Once the hand can be exercised by stretching into the flexion or covering. The other hand is pulled into the desired stretch. However, it should not be done with too much force and strength.
A similar effect is achieved when both hands are supported against a wall with the palms of the hands. This involves slow rotation of the hands. Or you can take your arms behind your back and grab the fingers of the other with one hand and slowly pull them upwards.
All three exercises stretch the forearm muscles very well. In addition to focusing on the forearms, the entire upper body should be stretched and trained, especially after sitting for a long time. The neck, shoulders, upper arms, upper and also the lower back should be exercised. You can find more exercises here:
- Exercises at the PC workplace
- Exercises for loosening and relaxation
