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What is RSI / Carpal Tunnel ?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the name
given to a common source of pain and hand numbness. It is caused
by increased pressure and hence strain on a nerve passing
through the hand through the confined space of the carpal
tunnel. It is a small part of the bigger problem which is RSI.
Repetitive strain injury or Repetitive stress injury (RSI) is a
term used to describe many different types of soft tissue
injury. It is an injury to the muscles, tendons, ligaments,
nerves or joints especially when they are kept tense for very
long periods of time, due to poor posture and/or repetitive
motions. RSI in an overuse syndrome and may include a group of
conditions as: Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS), Cumulative
Trauma Disorder (CTD), Work Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRUD).
What are the Symptoms of RSI ?
RSI usually refers to an upper extremity syndrome, involving the
neck, shoulder girdle, elbow, forearm, wrist, thumb, and hand.
RSI is usually localized to the tissue being overused, but as
the injury becomes more severe, the symptoms may radiate to
other areas. Also the symptoms may be constant or intermittent.
The following symptoms may indicate the onset of RSI.
Recurring pain or soreness in the neck, shoulders, upper back,
wrists, or hands.
Tingling, numbness, coldness or loss of sensation, loss of
dexterity.
Loss of grip strength, lack of endurance, weakness or fatigue.
Pain or numbness while lying in bed.
Stiff or tight muscles in the hands, wrists, fingers, forearm,
elbow, shoulder.
Loss of coordination in hands.
Cracking in the joints or muscles.
Swelling of hands and forearm.
Muscle spasms and muscle weakness.
Locking up or freezing of fingers, hands and wrists.
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