Repetitive Strain Injuries, also called Repetitive Stress Injuries, are caused by overuse of muscles and tendons in repetitive task occupations. They cause pain and tension in the wrists, elbows, shoulders, back and neck. This is a problem often found in computing occupations due to the repetitive nature of their job. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 50% of the workplace injuries reported each year are associated with Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs).

• Tension and stress in the back and shoulders.
• A tingling sensation or lack of coordination in the hands.
• Pain, tightness or soreness in the hands, wrists, forearms, or elbows.

• Take breaks often and massage the tired areas if needed
• Stretch your arms, fingers, shoulders and back as much as possible
• Use an ergonomic office chair
• Use an ergonomic computer desk
• Visit a doctor if problems persist

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a growing problem with the amount of time workers are asked to spend typing and computing during their normal duties. This condition can cause intense pain and numbness which leads to uncomfortable employees, unwanted time off and expensive workers compensation claims. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition in which the median nerve becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist.  The median nerve runs from the forearm into the hand and controls sensations to the palm side of the thumb and fingers. Irritated tendons or other swelling causes the tunnel to narrow and the median nerve becomes compressed. This results in pain, weakness, and numbness in the hands, wrists, and forearms.

Symptoms

• Burning, tingling, itching or numbness in the palm of the hand and the fingers
• Swollen sensation, even though little or no swelling is apparent
• Symptoms often first appear in one or both hands during the night, since many people sleep with flexed wrists
• Wake up feeling the need to "shake out" the hand or wrist
• Decreased grip strength may make it difficult to form a fist, grasp small objects, or perform other manual tasks
• In severe cases, the muscles at the base of the thumb may waste away
• Some people are unable to tell between hot and cold by touch

Prevention

• Perform stretching exercises
  
• Take frequent rest breaks
• Wear splints to keep wrists straight
• Use correct posture and wrist position.
• Wearing fingerless gloves can help keep hands warm and flexible
• Adjustable workstations, tools and tasks can be redesigned to enable the worker's wrist to maintain a natural position during work.
• Employers can develop programs in ergonomics

• Adjustable Tables Guide
• Ergonomics Definition
• Ergonomic Computer Desk Guide
• Ergonomic Office Chair Guide
• Ergonomic Lighting Guide
• Keyboard Tray Guide
• Computer Monitor Ergonomics
• Ventilation Ergonomics
• Some of the information used was taken from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration (http://www.osha.gov/); National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (www.ninds.nih.gov)