Repetitive Strain Injury: A Computer User's Guide

Repetitive Strain Injury "A wealth of information for people who have repetitive strain injury, for those who want to prevent it, and especially for those who think it doesn’t concern them. Every computer user has the potential for repetitive strain injury and should heed the advice in this book." —Caroline Rose, Editor The RSI Network "This is the most useful book I have seen for RSI sufferers. It is refreshing to read a book that takes these injuries seriously and offers sound advice." —Robert Dieterich, Managing Editor VDT News "Easy-to-read, expertly illustrated, and filled with hundreds of commonsense explanations and practical suggestions for those suffering from all types of repetitive strain injuries. Particularly outstanding is Dr. Pascarelli’s sensitivity to the impact of emotional distress and fear on physical well-being and recovery." —Stewart Leavitt, PhD Office of Ergonomics Researchers Leavitt Medical Communications The great speed, ease, and efficiency of personal computers can lead to severe physical and emotional pain. The problem is called "Repetitive Strain Injury," or RSI, and includes a wide range of conditions—from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome to Tenosynovitis. Over time, this "epidemic of the ’90s" damages the muscles, nerves, and tendons of the hands, wrists, and arms. Dr. Pascarelli’s seven-point plan offers proven ways of preventing the onset of RSI as well as tested methods that will help RSI sufferers to once again lead healthy, productive, and pain-free lives.

A doctor offers ways to prevent and heal repetitive strain injury, which has been called the epidemic of the 90s among people who work with computers. RSI, which includes conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis, can cause permanent damage to the hands, wrists, and arms. Exercises, retraining with better typing techniques, and tips for setting up the work station help sufferers go back to work without pain, and show all computers users how to avoid problems. Other topics: treatment options, emotional impact, and tricks for making everyday tasks easier. Includes a resource list.
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EMIL F. PASCARELLI, MD, is an Attending Physician at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, practices as a consultant in cumulative trauma disorders at Columbia-Presbyterian Eastside, and is Director of Ambulatory Care at St. Luke’s/Roosevelt Hospital in New York City. He is also the founder and Medical Director of the Miller Institute for Performing Artists, Professor of Clinical Medicine at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, and Associate Professor of Clinical Public Health at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. DEBORAH QUILTER is a veteran health writer who has contributed to the Columbia Journalism Review, The New York Daily News, Woman’s World, and San Francisco Focus, among others.

Partial table of contents:

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT RSI.

RSI: A Preventable Tragedy.

Symptoms of RSI.

Assessing Your Risk for RSI.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF RSI.

Getting an Accurate Diagnosis.

The RSI Examination.

Computer Vision.

THE ROAD TO RECOVERY.

Beginning the Healing Process with Physical and Occupational Therapy.

Self Care: Taking Charge of Your Recovery.

Activities of Daily Living.

Your Emotions.

MAINTENANCE: PREVENTING INJURY AND REINJURY.

Back to Work: From Disability to Productivity.

Setting Up the Workstation.

Preventing RSI: The Big Picture.

LEGAL ISSUES.

Protecting Your Legal Rights if You Have Job-Related RSI.

Reference Notes.

Resources.

Index.