MSDs, RSI and other Ergonomic Injuries

Ergonomic injuries are often caused by a combination of risk factors that over a period of time can lead to injury, pain and disability.  An injury can occur when there is ongoing exposure to  risk factors like below for example

•          Awkward or sustained postures 
•          Forceful exertion or strain
•          Contact pressure
•          Exposure to vibration
•          Exposure to heat or cold

A single incident may put pressure on the body which can in time heal.  Sometimes the pressure is low  and the body will heal with time.  Repeated exposure can cause a problem as it can interfere with the body's normal healing process and produce a disproportionate responses, leading to an ergonomic injury.

Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs), Repetitive Motion Injuries (RMIs), Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs), or Cumulative Trauma Injuries (CTIs) are all names for ergonomic injury.

Ergonomic injuries can affect the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage and spinal discs.   As we are spending more and more time at our computers and smart phones - maybe up to 8 -10 hours a day between home and work we need to watch how we use our computers.

Ergonomics is about using products that put less strain on your body, adapting your work or home environment to reduce pressure on your body.