Work strains and R.S.I (Repetitive Strain Injury) often emerge due to a combination of factors, including prolonged desk work, driving, and increased stress levels. These issues can exacerbate existing weaknesses and lead to significant pain. Understanding the causes and seeking appropriate treatment can help manage these conditions effectively.

Causes of Work Strains and R.S.I.

• Prolonged Sitting: Long hours at a desk or behind the wheel can strain your body, leading to discomfort and pain.
• Increased Stress: Higher stress levels can highlight physical weaknesses, intensifying symptoms.
• Reduced Exercise: With less time for physical activity, your body’s ability to counteract sedentary postures diminishes, amplifying pain.

Our Approach to Work-Related Problems

At Spritely Osteopathy, we focus on providing immediate relief from your symptoms through hands-on treatment. Our approach includes:

• Personalized Consultation: We discuss how your problem occurred and explain its impact on you specifically, rather than generalizing.
• Collaborative Care: For an effective return to work, we may collaborate with Occupational Health or provide off-work certificates if needed.
• Comprehensive Advice: We offer guidance on work-related posture, ergonomics, and techniques relevant to your trade to help you manage the problem independently.
• Holistic Treatment: Our goal is to help you recover and focus on your life, not your pain.

Overuse of the keyboard and mouse causes our tendons (extensions of our muscles which attach to bone) and the sheath which encases them to become inflamed.  This may make the gliding movement of the tendon in its sheath difficult as we type. As a sufferer you may experience aching, tenderness and mild swelling of the elbow, wrist, hand or thumb.

Carpal tunnel syndrome usually has more than one cause.  In individuals based at a computer persistent use of their forearm muscles can inflame the tendons at the wrist.  As there is limited space in the tunnel of the wrist the swollen tendons increase the pressure on the nerve and causes pain and tingling in the hand.

Common Issues and Treatments

• Shoulder and Neck Pain: Slouching at a desk can lead to rounded shoulders and poor alignment of the shoulder muscles, causing aches and burning pains. A forward-chin posture can irritate neck joints, potentially leading to arm pain and tingling.

• Repetitive Strain Injury (R.S.I.) or Tenosynovitis: Overuse of the keyboard and mouse can inflame tendons and their sheaths, making it difficult for tendons to glide smoothly. Symptoms may include aching, tenderness, and mild swelling in the elbow, wrist, hand, or thumb.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Persistent use of forearm muscles can inflame tendons at the wrist, increasing pressure on the nerve and causing pain and tingling in the hand. Improving joint movement and drainage can minimize these symptoms.

• Headaches and Muscular Strains: Restrictions or strains in the neck can lead to tight muscles, generating headaches. A forward-chin posture can strain neck muscles, requiring manipulation to improve movement and comfort. Manual handling or repetitive movements may cause muscular strains, leading to aches in the wrist or elbow.

• Back Pain: Sustained stooping, twisting, and poor posture can pressure back joints, causing local aches, pains, and potential disc injuries. Our objective is to ensure each joint in your back works through its full range, spreading loads evenly and minimizing strain.

Osteopathic Treatment for Work Strains and R.S.I.

Osteopathic treatment aims to address the affected area and redistribute load by improving the function of neighbouring joints. Advice on self-management can expedite your return to normal activities. By focusing on movement, posture, and ergonomics, we help you manage work strains and R.S.I. effectively.

Take Control of Your Work-Related Pain

If you’re experiencing work strains or R.S.I., don’t let pain dictate your life. Contact Spritely Osteopathy today to schedule an appointment and discover how our specialized treatments can help you manage your condition and improve your well-being.

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