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Repetitive Strain Injury is due to the symptoms resulting from repeated use, or excessive unaccustomed exercise, of particular muscles or muscle groups. It is thought that the pain and stiff ness of repetitive strain injury (RSI), also called repetitive overuse injury, are cause by inflammation resulting from repeated pulling on tendons and nearby tissues. Examples include the painful elbow tip resulting from pulling of forearm muscles in certain activities ('tennis elbow', 'golfer's elbow'l, and hand or wrist pains in manual workers, typists, pianists, and musicians playing wind and stringed instruments. Symptoms always subside with rest and recurrence can usually be prevented by taking regular breaks from the activity responsible, and sometimes by changing technique.

Repetitive strain injury (RSI), also called repetitive stress injury , is a loose group of conditions from overuse of the computer, guitar, knife or similar motion or tool. It is mainly caused by repetitive use of part of the body. Overuse of the muscles of the hands, wrists, arms or shoulders on a repeated and, usually, daily basis, causes injury to these muscles. This results in inflammation that's never really given a chance to recover, since these everyday activities invariably continue. The computer keyboard and mouse are often blamed for RSI, but shouldn't be charged with sole responsibility. For a start, the body was never designed to sit hunched over a desk. Poorly positioned and organised workstations add to the problem. Let's not forget, the longer someone puts a strain on muscles by sitting incorrectly without taking a break, the more likely the body is to suffer the consequences. It is most common among assembly line and computer workers. Good posture , ergonomics and limiting time in stressful working conditions can help prevent or halt the progress of the disorder. Stretches, strengthening exercises, Ergonomically Designed Facilities , massages and biofeedback training to reduce neck and shoulder muscle tension can help heal existing disorders.

Repetitive strain injury occurs when muscles, nerves or tendons become inflamed or irritated. Most repetitive stress injuries are linked to the stress of repetitive motions at the computer or overuse injuries  in sports. Repetitive strain injury is caused by performing repetitive motions, using excessive force or using extreme movements. It is also linked to many types of repetitive manual work, especially the use of vibrating equipment. If there are any symptoms, including painful, tingling or swollen hands, elbows, wrists or shoulders it is important to get treatment quickly. The sooner treatment is started the better the chances of recovery.

Causes of Repetitive Strain Injury

The common Causes of Repetitive Strain Injury :

• Stress.
• Small, rapid movements that are repeated over and over.
• Insufficient rest.
• No time to take a break during work or activity.
• Using force or moving heavy loads.

Symptoms of Repetitive Strain Injury

Some common Symptoms of Repetitive Strain Injury :

• Loss of coordination in hands.
• Numbness or tingling sensation
• Tingling and/or coldness in hands.
• Pain.
• Stiffness of body part.
• Swelling, inflammation.
• Decreased movement of a joint .

Treatment of Repetitive Strain Injury

• The medical professional might prescribe Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen to reduce swelling, or anti-convulsant medications such as gabapentin to reduce neuropathic pain .
• Biofeedback can be used to reduce stress-related muscle tension in the muscles of the neck and shoulders.
• Stretches (for less acute pain and general maintenance). Many doctors will prescribe occupational therapy or physical therapy to rebuild strength and flexibility. Some sufferers find great relief in specific movement therapies such as T'ai Chi Ch'üan , yoga , or the Alexander Technique .
• This should only be used as a last resort; it is not always effective, and the above methods have been known to heal even some very serious RSI conditions provided they are properly applied.
• Cold compression therapy administered by the patient, or perhaps immediately followed by TENS therapy administered by a health professional, circumvents occupational stress and may be one of the simplest ways to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Soft Tissue Therapy works by decompressing the area around the repetitive stress injury thus enhancing circulation and promoting healing.