RSI originates from repeating the same activity over a period of time that might lead to physical complaints. Currently, new terminology is used, namely CANS (Complaints of the Arm, Neck and Shoulder), but for explanatory purposes, we will refer to RSI.
Example of RSI: The use of a computer mouse is in itself light effort. However, you continuously use the same muscle and joint on the same arm to manoeuvre the mouse around. These structures then become overloaded and present as RSI.
Muscles and soft tissues are dependent on nutrients for optimal functioning. In support of optimal functioning, they should also be capable to get rid of waste products. If irritation or soft tissue damage persists from a repetitive movement, it will result in injury. Because of the injury, the local blood flow slows down and result in even more irritation. Ultimately, these micro-injuries together forms the complaint. At this stage, any slight movement will be painful due to the overload mechanism of this injury.
RSI/CANS complaints build up gradually. They can arise in your shoulders, neck and upper back, hands and arms. These complaints are often experienced as tingling, cold feeling, pain and/or stiffness. Typical RSI/CANS complaints are:
• Golfer‘s elbow
• Tennis elbow
• Postural complaints from working on a computer
• Gamer’s thumb/and other finger complaints
• Neck and middle back pain
The chiropractor will determine what triggers the RSI. Triggering factors could typically include incorrect posture and work space and your daily activities. The core focus is to adjust the ergonomics of your work space, advise you on postural correction and give you strengthening exercises.
The chiropractic treatment focuses on muscle relaxation and improving joint mobility. This is achieved with the use of mobilizing techniques that increase blood circulation in the muscle and allow optimal joint movement.
