Wrist pain is one of the complaints we see at The Physicaltherapy Centre.
Wrist/hand pain is becoming increasingly common with the increasing amount of hours spent at a desk, participation in racket sports, and resistance training in the gym. Injuries to this region can come about through one major trauma or as a result of repetitive strain.
Reptitive strain injury [RSI]
RSI is the term used to describe an overuse injury. Continuous repeated movements such as typing and using a mouse or prolonged postures cause strain, inflammation and damage to soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and tendon sheaths). RSI can affect a wide range of people from baristas to office workers to musicians. RSI commonly occurs at the wrist and elbow often leading to wrist/hand pain.
Common RSI conditions include carpal tunnel, golfers elbow and tennis elbow.
RSI (wrist/hand pain) symptoms include.
- Tightness, discomfort and stiffness
- Burning, aching or shooting pain
- Tingling, numbness and loss of sensation
- Tremors and clumsiness
- Fatigue
- Weakness especially in the hands or forearms
- Difficulty performing normal activities
- Chronically cold hands
- Hypersensitivity
What causes RSI?
RSI is usually caused by a combination of multiple factors. These can include but are not limited to
- Continuous repetitive movements
- Prolonged postures
- Not enough micro breaks
- Poor work ergonomics
- Lack of training
- Poorly fitting equipment
Treatment.
Acute cases of RSI are relatively simple to diagnosis and to treat successfully. Treatments include
- Chiropractic treatment, massage, adjustments, active release technique, dry needling, rehabilitation exercises
- Stopping or reducing the tasks or activities that are causing the injury.
- Altering the work environment and desk ergonomics
For professional advice and a personalised recovery plan, get in touch with us or book a consult online.