What is an RSI?
RSI, or repetitive strain (stress) injury, is a loose term which is comprised of a range of injuries resulting from overuse. RSIs are caused by long periods of using a set of muscles, tendons or nerves in poor posture or awkward positioning. There are many RSIs, one of the most common and well known being carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), is a condition of the median nerve in the wrist being compressed as entering the inflamed carpal tunnel. Carpal tunnel is most common in heavy computer users, and seems to be most common at approximately age 50, although, can be acquired at any age. Approximately 10% of the population will get CTS in their lifetime, however with proper exercise and control one can reduce their risk of getting carpal tunnel.
So, how can I prevent CTS?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is best prevented with proper posture while doing anything which involves repetitive motions of the wrist, or fingers. As the median nerve controls your fingers it comes in constant contact with the carpal tunnel, as the carpal tunnel gets inflamed from this repeated action, pressure is built upon the median nerve and can result in CTS symptoms. One common way of reducing CTS symptoms or the chances of acquiring CTS is to treat computing as a "sport," stretch and do exercises before entering long typing sessions, and cool down before stopping. Taking regular breaks and offering your body time to heal is another reccomended tactic.