Diagnosed with RSI - how can I clear it up

chickmug

mdbarber wrote: »

if it is a frozen shoulder pain will get very very bad, there is basically 3 stages and docs don't really know much about this condition at all as to what causes it etc.
from experience.
1st stage random pains (up to a year)
2nd freezing of movement in affected joint (weeks)
3rd thawing(up to 2 yrs)
The pain will get very intense as stage 1 progresses to 2nd stage and changes from random (from gently closing a door) to any sharp movement, this is where i decided to stop using arm altogether it took 6 weeks to get back to work but i have heard stories of it being months for some people
I had no previous injuries, just random pains throughout a 6 month period getting progressively worse but the early ones were months apart and not really paid attention too until they became regular.
My decision to stop using arm was based on i didn't really need to be able to lift my arm above my head but did need the pain to subside so i could drive.
I hope for your sake it ain't but certainly ask doc if he feels it could be this.

My GP was 100% sure it was RSI caused by too much mouse use. It is easing very very slowly and I guess I need to be patient. (excuse the pun)

AliceBanned

Has your GP referred you to a physiotherapist? I think you should if not. RSI can stem from the neck vertebrae being misaligned and/or inflexible. I have had a physio assessment for the same and it has been excellent, i have full confidence - they understand the movement in the body far better than any GP. You should really see a specialist if it doesn't improve.

Also I do yoga and it helps hugely with RSI. Find a well qualified instructor and they will be able to give some advice on posture and exercises. I don't have experience of frozen shoulder but have studied sports massage and it is considered to be something which simply has to disappear on its own, and always does although takes a year or so.

Joe_Bloggs

If your chair at your PC is not ideal then you may find that you are supporting your upper body by leaning on your mouse using arm. Correct seating practice, posture and balancing activities probably falls under the occupational health banner.There is also a nice article on Ergonomics here.
J_B.

Moneymaker

I developed RSI in my wrist after doing several weeks of repetitive contract work (touching up photos in PhotoShop) with a Kensington Trackball. I swapped to a left-hand mouse and rested my right arm. It took 3 weeks for the pain to subside. I think I was lucky.

backache_2

DUE TO ARTHRITUS IN HANDS,I DOWNLOADED FREE MOUSETOOL,DOES CLICKS FOR YOU www.MouseTool.com.,WOULD NOT BE WITH OUT

chickmug

Since my diagnosis I have started using the arm for lots of DIY stuff and it is getting better. I assume because I am using different movements. In the four/six weeks before seeing my GP I was making the mistake of protecting it by not using it.

Thank you all for your help