JoAnn Alafriz, BSc, Dipl ST, Dipl Ac
One out of every ten Canadian adults has a repetitive strain injury (RSI) serious enough to limit his or her normal activities. A study published in Health Reports, shows that RSI’s are affecting a growing number of adults. - Statistics Canada, The Daily, August, 2003
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) are a group of disorders caused by repeated movements that affect the muscles, tendons and nerves; of these, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is probably the most well known.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) repetitive strain injury is considered Qi (Energy) Stagnation. In this circumstance, the energy in the affected area is not flowing properly and becomes “stuck”. When Qi is stuck - pain arises. By stimulating channels (meridians) that run through the body carrying Qi (as well as blood) facilitating the smooth flow of this energy, TCM treatments effectively help to reduced pain, numbness, and tingling, and ultimately calm the nervous system allowing the body to innately heal itself.
WARNING SIGNS of RSI’s: Recurring pain or discomfort in neck, shoulders, upper back, wrists or hands; tingling and/or numbness; loss of grip strength; lack of endurance and/or weakness. Muscles in the arms and shoulders feel hard and ropey. Pain or numbness often occurs while lying in bed.
PREVENTION is Key! Good posture and ergonomic working conditions help to prevent or halt the progress of RSI. Rest, stretches and strengthening exercises, along with appropriate treatment, will reduce the symptoms associated to RSI. Listen to your body: BEFORE you begin to feel pain and fatigue – STOP. Pay attention to posture: the shoulders and head should not be hunched forward. Problems may be aggravated by other actions: carrying children, knitting, even using a knife on a cutting board can have an enormous impact. Be sure to take regular breaks, invest in a headset, and avoid tucking the telephone between your shoulder and ear. When typing, hold wrist straight rather than bent up, down, or to the side. Improve strength and blood flow in the affected muscles by regular aerobic exercise Get adequate sleep and drink plenty of water. Relax muscles by using muscle-relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or qigong to reduce pain.
