Repetitive strain injury, or RSI, describes pain caused or aggravated by repeated movements, sustained postures, overuse, poor workstation setup, excessive gripping, typing, mouse use, phone use, musical instruments, tools, sport or manual work. RSI commonly affects the neck, shoulders, elbows, forearms, wrists and hands. NHS guidance describes RSI as usually manageable with activity modification, ergonomic change and musculoskeletal treatment where symptoms persist.
Symptoms
RSI may cause aching, burning, tightness, weakness, tingling, stiffness, reduced grip, fatigue, or pain that builds through the working day. Symptoms may start mildly but become persistent if the underlying load pattern is not changed.
Assessment and treatment
At Sayer Clinics, we assess the whole mechanical chain: neck, shoulder, upper back, elbow, wrist, hand, posture, workstation habits, muscle tension and nerve sensitivity. Treatment may include chiropractic care, massage therapy, soft-tissue release, joint mobilisation, nerve mobility work, stretching, strengthening, ergonomic advice and graded return-to-activity planning.
The aim is not simply to “rub the sore area”, but to identify why that area is being overloaded and help the patient change the mechanics driving the symptoms.
Your first consultation includes a full medical history, clinical examination, diagnosis, consented digital X-ray where clinically indicated, first treatment session and clear aftercare advice. Treatment is always adapted to your condition, examination findings, medical history and comfort level. Where symptoms suggest a condition requiring medical investigation, we will advise appropriate referral.