What type of keyboard would you use to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injury?
What is repetitive strain injury? Show A repetitive strain injury (RSI), sometimes referred to as repetitive stress injury, is a gradual buildup of damage to muscles, tendons, and nerves from repetitive motions. RSIs are common and may be caused by many different types of activities, including:
Some common RSIs are:
Keep reading to learn more about this type of injury. RSI frequently affects your:
Other areas of your body can also be affected. Symptoms include:
Symptoms may begin gradually and then become constant and more intense. Even with initial treatment, symptoms may limit your ability to perform your usual activities. RSI can occur when you do repetitive movements. Those movements can cause your muscles and tendons to become damaged over time. Some activities that can increase your risk for RSI are:
Previous injuries or conditions, such as a rotator cuff tear or an injury to your wrist, back, or shoulder, can also predispose you to RSI. Desk jobs are not the only occupations whose workers are at risk for RSI. Other occupations that involve repetitive movements and may increase your risk include:
If you have even mild discomfort completing certain tasks on your job or at home, it’s a good idea to see your doctor to talk about RSI. Your doctor will ask you questions about your work and other activities to try to identify any repetitive movements you do. They’ll also ask about your work environment, such as whether you work at a computer or have an ergonomic work station. They’ll do a physical exam as well. During the exam, they’ll perform range of motion tests and check for tenderness, inflammation, reflexes, and strength in the affected area. Your doctor may also order magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound to assess tissue damage. An electromyography (EMG) may be ordered to check on nerve damage. For mild damage, your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist. If the damage is severe, they may also refer you to a specialist or surgeon. The initial treatment for RSI symptoms is conservative. This may include:
Your doctor and physical therapist can also suggest adjustments to your work station, such as readjusting your chair and desk if you work at a computer, or modifications to your movements and equipment to minimize muscle strain and stress. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Learn more: Tendon damage surgery » Your outlook with RSI depends on the severity of your symptoms and your general health. You may be able to use conservative measures to modify your work routine and minimize pain and damage. Or, you may have to stop certain tasks at work for a while to rest the affected area. If other measures don’t work, your doctor may recommend surgery for specific problems involving nerves and tendons. If you sit at a desk, follow the traditional advice from parents and teachers: Sit up straight and don’t slouch! Good posture is the key to avoiding unnecessary stress on your muscles. This takes practice and mindfulness. There are also many exercises you can do to improve your posture.
Taking frequent breaks from your desk throughout the day is as important as having an ergonomic workstation.
Those may sound like little things, but mini breaks can make a big difference in preventing RSI. If your work is not at a desk, the same principles apply. Maintain good posture, figure out the least stressful positions for the repetitive tasks required, and take frequent mini breaks. If you have to stand a lot, use an antifatigue mat. Use extension poles for cleaning tools to avoid straining your arms, and lift heavy loads properly. If you use tools, take breaks throughout the day to stretch and flex your fingers and wrists. Most occupations have been studied in detail and have guidelines for reducing worker stress while doing specific tasks. The National Education Association, for example, has a handbook on RSI that provides tips for teachers, drivers, food workers, custodians, and others. Which type of keyboard eliminates repetitive strain injury?A split keyboard may aid you in keeping your wrists straight. Let your hands float: This means don't rest your wrists on the desk, keyboard, or a wrist rest when you are typing. Let them hover over the keys.
What is used to reduce the risk of repetitive strain?Equipment to reduce the risk of RSI
a properly adjusted chair and a well-positioned screen, keyboard and mouse will reduce the risk of RSI for computer users. the use of well-designed workstations and equipment such as conveyors can make handling objects easier during manufacture, packing or loading.
Which keyboards can reduce RSI?The Kinesis Advantage2 Contoured Keyboard is one of the best keyboards for typing. Anyone who types for long periods of time will benefits by using one of these keyboards, because the Kinesis keyboard was designed for the human body. The Kinesis keyboard reduces RSI and wrist pain by lowering the strain in the wrists.
What type of keyboard is used to reduce the chances of wrist injuries?The ergonomic keyboard is far more comfortable than the traditional one. It allows both wrists and hands to take up a more natural position.
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