Disabled Writers: How to Avoid RSI

RSI (repetitive strain injury) is a non-medical term used to describe the host of injuries that can occur as a result of performing the same actions over and over. Writers are at an increased vulnerability to RSI because of their frequent computer use. In fact, according to Health.gov, more than 15% of writers become legally disabled as a result of RSI.

Writers' hands are the most at risk of RSI because of the repetitive use of the mouse and keyboard. Your fingers continually pluck at the keys and your hand moves the mouse in all directions across your desk surface. Disabled writers can begin to suffer the symptoms of RSI early in their careers, but may not seek treatment for years because they don't think anything is seriously wrong.

Dr. Kevin Varner, my physiologist, says that RSI can strike in many different forms, from tendinitis to carpal tunnel syndrome. The symptoms can be weak at first -- just a slight tingling sensation in the wrists or fingers -- but will grow increasingly prevalent over weeks or months and can escalate into chronic pain. Some disorders caused by RSI can be corrected with surgery, but according to Varner, many disabled writers may not qualify for surgical procedures.

The most important way to prevent RSI is to pay attention to your body. When something in your wrists, hands, back or neck begins to hurt or tingle, your best bet is to see your doctor or a specialist immediately. An early diagnosis can all but reverse the symptoms of RSI and if you change the way in which you work on the computer, you can avoid causing further damage to your bones, muscles and tendons.

Take Frequent Breaks

To avoid becoming a disabled writer and to stave off the possibility of RSI, you should take frequent breaks throughout the day. I know better than anyone that writing can consume you from one hour to the next; you take hold of an idea and refuse to let it go until you've said all that's on your mind. While this might make for a productive workday, it can be dangerous for your health.