Demand for physical therapy services is on the rise, with over 11 million people taking advantage of out-patient pain management services in 2011. If you’re consistently noticing joint pain or looking for back pain treatment, one of the causes may be Repetitive Strain Injury, especially if you work in an office or doing continual manufacturing work. RSI is treatable, but you’ll need to understand the causes and prevention before you can start to recover.
Causes of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
Just as the name suggests, RSI is caused by damage to your muscles, nerves, and tendons over a long period of time as a result of repetitive motions. While these are commonly associated with sports injuries (for example, using rowers with poor wrist posture while holding their oars) some of the most common causes of RSI are working on a computer, continually swiping items in a grocery store, or doing any repetitive manufacturing work. Over time, these continuous tasks can result in neck pain, joint pain, back pain, and a host of other ailments, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or tendinitis.
How You Can Prevent It
Experts agree that by the time you notice needing back pain treatment or wrist circles, you’ve already done significant damage to your tendons. A good rule of thumb is to give yourself breaks throughout the day, consistently use good posture, and be sure you use proper form while doing everyday tasks. For example, if you primarily do office work, sitting in a high chair with your back straight, using a track ball, keeping the wrists high while typing, and regularly standing up to stretch are all great ways to prevent injury later on.
Treatment with Physical Therapy
If your injuries are causing constant pain, it may be time to look into visiting a rehabilitation center for pain management. A physical therapist can help you better understand what actions and movements are causing your pain and can suggest exercises to help treat your injuries. However, you’ll only receive what you put into your treatment. Studies show that only a third of all patients follow the instructions of their sports injury doctor, and many of these individuals have longer recovery times later on.
Talk to your doctor or read online reviews to find a specialist who can help with RSI. Taking the steps to treat yourself now will save you from pain and further injury later.
