Tips for Preventing RSI: Repetitive Strain Injuries

Tips for Preventing RSI at Your Desk | Walnut Creek MassageRepetitive strain injury (RSI) (also known as repetitive stress injury), is often caused by repetitive motions at work, especially for people who work at a desk and use a computer all day.

Here are tips to relieving repetitive strain at your desk:

1. Decrease Repetitive Tasks

Can you rotate your day’s activities or even rotate roles with your co-workers? Switching to different tasks allow you to use different muscles and decrease the strain to the same set of muscles you usually use every day.

2. Decrease Computer time

Can you cut back time at your computer? Can you use a program like Dragon Naturally Speaking and dictate your documents without having to type? Can you decrease your recreational computer usage so your body can rest during your off-hours?

3. Improve Your Desk Ergonomics

A better workplace design can prevent poor posture, overreaching for our mouse or keyboard or viewing your monitor at awkward angles.

4. Stretch!

Every time you complete a task, take two minutes to stretch your wrists, forearms and your neck. Circle your shoulders foward, up toward your ears and back.

5. Mini-Breaks

Every hour take a five to ten-minute break. Walk to the other side of your office and get a glass of water. Or take a quick break outside and walk around your building. When you get back you’ll feel refreshed and focused for the next hour.

6. Breathe!

Remember to take deep breaths throughout the day. Imagine breathing into your arms, neck and shoulders. Be mindful of where you hold tension and imagine your muscles letting go with each exhale.

These steps can help you feel flexible and relaxed, even as you work, and help prevent repetitive stress injuries.

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