Repetitive stress injuries are a major problem for people in many different fields. Also abbreviated as RSIs, these injuries can have a serious impact on someone’s life.
But how is that the case? In what ways can an RSI change things?
Defining repetitive stress
Mayo Clinic discusses overuse injuries, which can easily occur on the job. Overuse injuries happen when a person uses the same muscles, joints or parts of their body in the same way over and over again.
This can happen in almost any industry simply due to the repetitive nature of most jobs. For example, car mechanics, cashiers, bakers, hair stylists, secretaries, librarians and chefs all have one thing in common: they work jobs that require them to move in the same way every single day.
Common areas of injury
RSIs to the upper body are the most common due to the fact that many jobs rely on a person’s hands rather than their legs or feet. RSIs of the lower body do still occur, though.
Of the upper body RSIs, the most common areas of injury include the elbows and wrists. These joints often see a lot of motion, and the repetitive mobility can cause a lot of problems for unsuspecting workers.
Problems RSIs cause
RSIs can and often do, unfortunately, change the lives of sufferers. It is very difficult for someone with an RSI to continue their work. This could put their ability to support themselves at risk. Those who attempt to push through the pain will likely only suffer from worse injuries that can wrack up a hefty medical bill.