Learn about repetitive stress injuries

When you work regular hours at a job that is physically demanding, you are at risk for injuries. Depending on the type of work you do, the kinds of injuries that you are at risk for can vary.

Not all injuries are due to one single accident. Some can occur over time and may get called a repetitive stress injury, or an RSI.

What is a repetitive stress injury?

A repetitive stress injury, also known as an RSI is a work-related injury that occurs over time. One example of an RSI is carpal tunnel syndrome. Tennis elbow is another. These are injuries that happen because repetitive movements are continuously performed, and put stress on the same areas.

How does a repetitive stress injury impact you?

While an RSI may not sound like it is urgent, if you have one that has become painful, it can make it very difficult or even impossible to work. Additionally, you do not have to be working at a particularly hazardous job to be at risk for an RSI. Any job that requires you to move repetitively can put you at risk. For example, nurses, housekeepers, and factory workers are all at risk for developing RSIs.

Just because your job does not seem dangerous at the outset does not mean that you are free from the risk of developing an RSI. Additionally, it is important to take care of any injuries you have quickly, as waiting too long can give your RSI time to get worse.