The main overriding general symptom of a repetitive strain injury is pain. Normally this is in the local area affected by the RSI, however, this is not always the case. For example, a trapped nerve in the shoulder region could be the reason for a hand based repetitive strain injury, so it is important to be aware that there may be a certain degree of linkage between injuries.
Pain will often manifest itself in the muscles or joints and can have effect on the shoulders, neck, upper back, arms wrists, hands and fingers amongst others.
Tingling, numbness, tightness, burning, swelling and general soreness are often experienced along with a feeling of weakness in the affected area.
Some may experience a different colouration in the skin and/or a change in shape of the affected region.
Tiredness can often be associated with a repetitive strain injury. The actual pain itself can have a weakening affect, however, depending on the type and severity of the RSI, it can also affect sleeping patterns.
In the early stages of an RSI it is common to have one or two of the symptoms during the type of activity that brings on the pain, but once the activity has ceased, the symptoms will also disappear. For example, if you are a typist you may experience RSI type symptoms during the day while you’re typing, but once you have finished work (or over the weekend) you will not suffer any symptoms. It is important to note that although the pain may be manageable (and it may disappear for large periods of your day) it could develop into a more severe case producing greater pain with more frequency (the RSI symptoms may even become irreversible if the case is sufficiently advanced) if the source of the RSI is not tackled and treatment is not sought.
What if you suffer from RSI?
Your employer has a duty to ensure that you are not put in danger during the course of your employment; this includes a responsibility to ensure that working practices do not cause you undue harm. If you have been injured as a result of a repetitive strain injury and your employer has not given you the support required, you should contact one of our solicitors to see if you might be entitled to make a claim for compensation.