Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a leading type of injury in the workplace and account for 34% of all lost workdays in the United States, according to estimates by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These conditions are estimated to account for one out of every three dollars spent on Workers’ Compensation, costing employers $20 billion a year on direct costs, and five times that on indirect costs related to staff replacement and retraining.
One common class of musculoskeletal disorders is Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs). These conditions are most often caused by repetitive use of parts of the body while performing work or recreational activities. Typically a RSI is a result of a work task that involves repetitive motions, forceful exertions, contact stress, vibration, or on-going awkward positions. This can put strain on the muscles, tendons, and soft tissue and often affect the nerves. Some examples of RSI diagnoses include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, bursitis, and trigger finger. Activities that can cause RSIs are computer, tablet or smartphone use, carpentry, material handling, or even recreational activities such as culinary arts, tennis, or golf.
Symptoms of RSIs include throbbing, twinges, tingling, and fatigue which can gradually worsen over time. Individuals often ignore discomfort, hoping it will “go away”, however early diagnosis and intervention can diminish and eliminate RSIs, thus preventing residual damage. A physician with expertise in evaluating and diagnosing work-related injuries can recommend treatments that can help patients get better. Ergonomic assessments, which include a survey of one’s worksite, work behaviors, work-tools, and job tasks, and other therapeutic interventions, may be part of their recommendations.
Click here to learn more about RSI’s. The Mount Sinai Selikoff Centers for Occupational Health will be hosting an informational table on February 29th at the Guggenheim Pavillion (1468 Madison Avenue, New York, NY) from 12-3 PM with a certified ergonomist to discuss ways to prevent and manage work-related RSIs. All Mount Sinai Health System staff and the public are welcome.