What causes RSI?

RSI can be caused by:

• Repeating the same sequence of movements many times an hour or day.
• Static posture, sitting in the same position for hours on end.
• Having to work very fast, under pressure.
• Having to use appreciable force; lifting, carrying, pulling, pushing.
• Lack of control over the order of tasks or working methods, such as lean working.
• Working in awkward or tiring positions.
• Awkward grip.
• Organisational factors, such as lack of variety in the task.
• Psychosocial factors such as stress. When you are under stress, continuing to work intensively will increase the likelihood of developing RSI-type symptoms.

RSI can produce what is called 'referred pain'. This where you feel the pain in a different part of the body to the one that is causing it. So tightened and sore muscles in the neck can cause pain in your hands, fingers, wrists and forearms.