Health Topics: Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI)

If you are on the computer for an extended period of time or doing the same activity in a static position, you may be at risk for Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI).

Laptops pose additional ergonomic challenges since they have a fixed design. When the keyboard is in the proper position for the wrist, the screen is not in an adequate position for the neck and vice versa. Using a laptop is a trade off between poor neck/head posture and poor hand/wrist posture. You need to pay special attention to how you use your laptop to prevent problems.

Be patient with the healing process.  The various treatments, gradual resumption of your work and activities and rehabilitation exercises take time.  However, adjustments to your work station and work habits will usually result in a return to your prior level of functioning and health.