RSI means repetitive stress injury and are the most common job-related injuries and are responsible for the highest number of days lost. One of the most common RSI injuries are, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). RSI injury is the most common surgery of the hand and wrist.
Symptoms of repetitive stress injuries include tightness, stiffness, pain, tingling, numbness, coldness, and loss of strength in the arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a repetitive stress injury that refers to the inflammation of a specific ligament that puts pressure on the median nerve.
Acupuncture is extremely effective for treating repetitive stress injuries including carpal tunnel syndrome, which can avoid the need for surgery or intake strong pain killer. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist which is made up of ligaments and bones. The median nerve and the tendons that connect the fingers to the muscles of the forearm pass through this tightly spaced tunnel.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when swelling or irritation of the tendons in the carpal tunnel results in putting pressure on the median nerve which causes pain on the palmer side of the wrist and also gives pain and tingling in the fingers. The median nerve is responsible to controls sensations on palmer side of the thumb and fingers and controls the movements of fingers and thumb.
Symptoms usually includes frequent burning, tingling, or numbness in the palm of the hand and the fingers, especially index, middle and ring fingers. The pain can sometimes travel up to the arm and affect the shoulder. This kind of symptoms normally bothers in the night. As symptoms worsen, people might feel pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist. Later, the pain starts radiating up to the arm during the day which reduce the strength and make day to day manual task difficult.
Treatment of Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI) in Acupuncture
According to TCM Acupuncture perspective, a repetitive stress injury is seen as
a disruption or blockage of the flow of chi and blood within the area. It is associated
with cold, dampness or wind penetrating the muscles and tendons. Stimulating
acupuncture points, stretching exercises and herbal medicines are chosen to
treat RSI.
Some Recommendations for RSI:
- Minimize stress on your hands and wrists
- Avoid doing the same task for more than a couple of hours at a time and alternate between tasks that use different muscle groups where possible
- Take small breaks to gently stretch and bend your hands and wrists and readjust your position.
- Use appropriate force to perform tasks with your affected hands, which can increase pressure and cause irritation
- Be mindful of the speed and pressure you used to perform tasks.
- Avoid incorrect posture which can cause the compression of nerve in the neck, hands, wrist, and fingers.
Dr Kusum Lata is a Registered Acupuncturist and Qualified professional Ayurvedic Doctor. At AcuAyur HolisticHealth Centre, we offer Acupuncture, Electric Acupuncture, cupping, or moxa treatment for Sports Injury.
If you think these time-tested traditional medicines can make a difference in your health & wellbeing, or would like further information, please call on (03) 9803 8718 or write email on info@acuayur.com.au
