Working in an office environment on computers and at workstations is an activity that most people would imagine is about as risk-free as jobs come. Just because the relative hazards of sedentary work in front of the computer may be limited, this should not undermine recognition of the real physical hazards that can arise from repeated work of this form, particularly in the form of Keyboard RSI. The most common physical ailment that may befall a worker who uses computers and workstations is repetitive strain injury which occurs when muscles are subjected to repeated or prolonged periods of tension in ways that are un-natural to the body.

Medication & Treatment

If you already suffer from keyboard RSI there are steps you can take. Your doctor or occupational therapist can prescribe appropriate medication and stretching and strengthening exercises, while massage therapy and soft tissue therapy may also be helpful. For repetitive strain injury specific to computer use, consider the use of adaptive technology – modified keyboards and mice or even speech recognition software to prevent the sufferer of keyboard repetivive strain injury engaging in prolonged periods of typing. Doctors may prescribe orthopaedic hand braces for keyboard RSI if the case suggests it would benefit from them.

Health & Safety

Repetitive strain injury is an umbrella term that covers a variety of conditions affecting different parts of the body. In addition to symptoms related to the fingers and hand, keyboard RSI symptoms may also include pain, tingling and numbness in the muscles of the upper body. Since the introduction of light touch, fast typing equipment the problem of keyboard RSI has become a matter of particular concern which afflicts thousand of regular workstation users. Employers have a legal duty to ensure that employees are kept healthy and safe whilst at work. There are ergonomically designed apparatus and workstations available to help prevent this condition and it is possible your employer is shirking his or her responsibilities if you or your co-workers develop a repetitive strain injury.

Free Legal Avice

If you would like to speak to a specialist solicitor who only deals with personal injury claims you can either use the helpline or complete the form or just email us. Compensation is paid in full with no deductions. You do not have to fund or finance your claim. Our claims are guaranteed to be risk free. If after talking to us you decide not to take matters further then you are under no obligation to do so and you will not be charged for our advice.