The term ‘work-related upper limb disorders’ is used to group together soft tissue injuries of the neck and upper limbs that are caused or exacerbated by work activities. some of these conditions are clinically diagnosable, for example carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis while others are non-specific.

The term RSI refers to pain in the arm associated with computer work.

The most common symptoms are pain, reduced joint movement and swelling of the affected area. If there is nerve involvement there can be numbness and other abnormal sensations and even loss of function.

The term ‘repetitive strain injury’ (RSI) is often used to refer to pain in the arm associated with computer work. The nature of the arm and hand activities is repetitive and this can lead to strain injuries.

In 2006 nearly half a million people in the UK suffered from some form of RSI. With the increasingly intensive use of keyboards and keypads this figure is likely to rise. According to Microsoft, repetitive strain injuries cost UK businesses £300 million every year.