ABSTRACT
What are RSI problems? The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies repetitive stress problems as illnesses. They include any problem that affects muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, nerves cartilage, and blood vessels in the upper and lower extremities and in the back. Repetitive stress injuries occur when the body is unable to keep up with the wear and tear associated with years of improper motions, poor postures and positions, or repetitive tasks. The inability to recover from RSIs can be a function of employees’ personal predisposition, their jobs, their required activity, or a combination of these factors (Powell, 1995). From a personal perspective, nonwork factors such as age, gender, obesity, medical history, and even the use of medication can increase the risk of developing RSIs. In addition, hobbies or work activities that are repetitive, require excessive grip or pinch forces, or involve the use of vibrating tools or awkward motions and postures also increase the risk.
